Interim Care
Unplanned Pregnancy?
Call our 24-hour toll-free number to speak to a Cradle counselor:
800-CRADLE4 (800-272-3534)
Text CRADLE to 66746
Or, fill out our online form and we’ll email you back.
Your information will be kept confidential.
Temporary Care While You Consider Options
Illinois Adoption Law dictates that a mother may legally consent to a voluntary plan of adoption no earlier than 72 hours after the birth of her baby. The decision to relinquish parental rights of a child is final and irrevocable once legal documents are signed, and The Cradle knows this decision takes thought, time, and a great deal of love and consideration.
The Cradle works with Maryville, a trusted local child and family service agency, to care for babies while parents are thinking through all of their options. You may wish to use this temporary care service while working with a Cradle Counselor. The professional staff at Maryville will provide 24/7 care of your baby. And, of course, you can visit and call for updates. The Cradle and Maryville work together to ensure that babies receive high quality care.
If you have any questions or need support, call our Helpline at 800-CRADLE4 (800-272-3534) or email helpline@cradle.org.
Do you live in Indiana? Chat with your case worker to find temporary care options in your area.
Contact the Cradle
We’re available 24/7. All of your information is confidential
To speak to someone now, call our 24-hour hotline: (800) 272-3534 or text us at (312) 800-1559 (answered 8:30am-8pm).
If you’d like us to contact you, please use the form.
If you are looking to adopt a child, please schedule a call with an Adoptive Parent Counselor.
If you are an adopted person looking for information, please schedule an informational consultation with our post adoption department.
