[w8ting4Thomas]

We just received our G884 paperwork. I was DISTRAUGHT to read that his birthmom makes $98/month. Has anyone helped birthmom and if so how? We now have an address for her but she is illiterate. Suggestions????
You are all smarter than me!!

[robandjulie]

Someone once mentioned setting up a bank account and having money deposited in it regularly and then sending the birth family or foster family the ATM card and PIN (obviously that part is tricky and requires a searcher, some tact, and some security). The fees for having the money withdrawn were small compared to wiring money and the family could access it at their convenience. I thought that was a really clever idea and filed it away... Not sure if that would work here, since the first big task is establishing a connection and assessing her needs.

I'm sorry the information was so upsetting. Honestly, I can't think of any heartening news that would be in that file, but it's especially sad to know that she's struggling so much. Good luck finding a way to help.

[Mardan]

We established contact through a searcher with our daughter's birthmother and are helping that way. We are helping with school expenses (the birthmother has a child we are paying for school expenses for) and then a couple of times a year we send money for her to use as she desires. Good luck with whatever you decide and feel free to pm if you want more information.

Julie (proud mom to a princess and a prince)

[Slatond10]

Like Julie, I located birthmom thru a searcher and I pay for the 2 youngest siblings education thru the searcher and plan to do all 3 school age siblings next year.

I send letters/ updates of DD and small amts of money w/ Christmas gifts.

I hope to do more as our relationship progresses but we are only @ the beginning stages.