By Tereza Ma and Joanna King
JACKSON – Catholic Charities of Jackson is working to raise awareness that its adoption, maternity support and post-adoption services remain available to families throughout Mississippi.
The agency’s Adoption and Post-Adoption Program has been intentionally reconnecting with community partners, hospitals and other organizations to remind the public that these services continue to be offered and that support is available for those considering adoption, seeking maternity assistance or needing resources after an adoption is finalized.
“The biggest thing we want the community to know is adoption is here,” said Shaniqua Forrest, program director for Adoption and Post-Adoption Services at Catholic Charities. “We are maintaining the program. We are here to support in any way that anyone may need.”
Catholic Charities offers maternity support, domestic and international adoption services, Safe Home Studies, foster-to-adopt opportunities and post-placement visits. The agency’s goal is to place children in loving, stable and permanent homes while providing guidance and support throughout the adoption process.
As part of its outreach efforts, the program recently hosted a community baby shower that provided essential baby items to expectant and new mothers. Participants received diapers, wipes, bottles, pacifiers and clothing, while donated items such as a stroller and breast pump were also distributed. Program staff noted that two mothers delivered their babies before the event and received their donated items at the hospital.
The agency also provides extensive post-adoption support designed to help families navigate challenges that may arise after an adoption is finalized. Services include counseling, mental health treatment, crisis intervention, family preservation and stabilization services, peer support and respite care.
For Cornella Slaughter, post-adoption specialist with Catholic Charities, ongoing support is essential to helping families thrive.
“The main goal is to make sure that that placement stays permanent,” Slaughter said.

Catholic Charities staff emphasized that adoptive families do not have to face challenges alone and that resources are available to support both parents and children as they adjust and grow together.
The agency will host an event highlighting its Post-Adoption Services on Tuesday, June 30 – “Taco-bout a Great Support System.” Those interested in learning more about adoption, maternity support or post-adoption resources can contact Catholic Charities for additional information at (601) 326-3796.