Parenting

Care Net Pregnancy Center of Rutland
138 West Street
Rutland, VT 05701
Voice - (802) 775-5611
Fax - (802) 775-8963

Are you considering keeping your baby? Or maybe the thought of becoming a parent seems impossible to you at this time. We've talked to hundreds of clients who are concerned about things like:

	My husband or boyfriend doesn't want the baby but I do (for men) My girlfriend doesn't want the baby but I do
	I can't tell my family
	How will I finish school?
	How will I continue working?
	Where will I live?
	I don't have medical insurance
	I can't afford a child
	I'm too young

We can talk about all these issues with you so you can decide if parenting is right for you.

Single parenting is not an easy choice to make. You will have many days where you might not think you can make it. Even though we're glad you chose life, we want to make sure that you are not putting yourself into a stressful and harmful situation. Remember to learn about all of your options! Our pregnancy center advocates are ready to assist you in discovering all the support services that exist in your area. We exist to support you throughout your pregnancy and beyond!

Here are some questions to consider about single parenting:

Q: If I can't afford to live on my own, where can I live with my baby?

A: We can help you explore your housing options before you deliver. Most single parents need to work. Consider your childcare options in each situation:

	Living with a friend or relative
	Staying in a group home for single mothers
	Living with your parents or the birthfather's parents
	Finding an apartment in public, subsidized housing

Q: Can anyone help me with baby items, maternity clothes, etc.?

A: Care Net Pregnancy Center of Rutland cares about your baby's needs. We can help you with maternity clothes, and offer a baby bundle after the baby is born, and continued support and contact through your baby's first year. We will give you community referrals to help you find other needed items and support.

Q: How do I get support from the father?

A: The father's legal responsibilities include providing financial support for your child. Most states have a child support enforcement agency that will withhold money from his paycheck if he is unwilling to pay. If the father is unable to provide child support, you need to plan how you will care for your baby without him. A birthfather's support record may influence court decisions about custody and visitation rights.

In some states, the father's name is not even put on the birth certificate unless you request it. If he has signed a notarized paternity affidavit, he may have legal rights, including visitation and the right to deny or consent to medical decisions for your child. Our counselors will provide more details about the birthfather's rights and responsibilities. You and the father should also discuss your individual rights and responsibilities. A child's needs are best met when you and the father work together.

Q: Can I still choose adoption later if parenting doesn't work out?

A: If single parenting becomes too difficult and you decide to consider adoption, making an adoption plan is still an option. It takes courage to realize that by yourself you cannot provide all that your child needs. But separating from a child with whom you have bonded can be difficult. We will be happy to connect you with several adoption agencies in your area that can help you.

Please call for a confidential appointment with one of our staff. We can help.

Contact our center to reserve your appointment. You can also send us a note through our website.

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