Mental Health Services


 

Adoption

A new addition to any family brings with it a certain amount of stress along with the excitement. There are the usual parental concerns about raising healthy, happy children and the changing dynamics within the family structure. However, parents of adopted children have all these concerns, and more. Additional issues include attachment, educating extended family and friends and talking to your child about his or her unique birth experience.

A Source of Information and Support

Jewish Family Services is a safe, confidential, and supportive place to discuss and process the many issues surrounding your choice to adopt.  Our staff can help you navigate the different kinds of adoptions available, as well as give you access to our database of adoption-related financial resources that may help offset expenses. In addition, we will connect you with reputable and reliable adoption resources locally, nationally and internationally which have demonstrated their understanding of Jewish sensibilities. From the initial assessment and facilitation of the home study to post-adoption supportive services, JFS will prepare you for the challenges of a domestic or overseas adoption. 

Experience and Expertise

Our counselors understand the stresses of modern families – and the stresses unique to adoptive families. The Adoption Services team has the resources, tools, techniques and recommendations to help all families – and adoptive families – grow strong.  In addition, Jewish parents bring unique questions and concerns to the adoption process.  A counselor from JFS will guide you and recommend resources to help you answer questions about bringing an inter-racial child into the Jewish community, conversions, balancing cultural and religious identities and other issues that may arise.

JFS is committed to strengthening the sense of community around adoptive families through education and outreach programs in the Jewish community. We also facilitate matching adoptive parents with mentors and families who can share their own adoption experiences and offer valuable insights.

Contact

For more information about JFS Adoption Services, call 414-390-5800. Jewish Family Services provides comprehensive social services to enhance the quality of life for people of all races and religions. JFS is licensed as a mental health clinic by the State of Wisconsin and is accredited by the Council of Accreditation.

Facts & Figures

  • One in five Jewish couples experience infertility, compared to one in six in the general population
  • 25% of Jewish adoptions in the U.S. are transracial, compared to 8% of adoptions in general
  • Today's Jewish families have many faces. JFS is committed to providing strong Jewish community support to singles and couples who are considering adoption, and to parents who have lovingly brought an adopted child into their families.

Helpful Links:

Adoption Alliance

Baltimore, MD

www.JFS.org

Contact: Ben Levey

Adoption Choice

Milwaukee, WI

adoptionchoiceinc@hotmail

Contact: Jill Gerlach/Melinda Randa

Jewish Family and Children’s Service

Philadelphia, PA

www.JFCSPHIL.org

Contact: Lisa Walters

Adoption Resources of Wisconsin

www.WIADOPT.org

Stars of David International, Inc.

Northbrook, IL

www.STARSOFDAVID.org

StarsDavid@aol.com



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