Domestic Adoption — Non-Identifying Information

What is involved in obtaining non-identifying background information?

The first step to obtaining non-identifying information is to either:

1. complete the Request Assistance form. Once received, a social worker will contact you to discuss your interest.
   OR
2. directly contact one of our PASE Social Workers listed below.

The social worker will speak with you about your request and ask for the following information:

• For adopted persons — your name, date of birth, and parents' names at the time they adopted you
• For adoptive parents of a minor child — your name (and spouse's name) at the time of the adoption, your child's name given by you, and your child's date of birth
• For birth parents — your name at the time of the placement, your child's birth name and date of birth

Before releasing any information to you, you will be required to send us a copy of your driver's license or birth certificate by mail, fax, or in person confirming your identification. The social worker will review your file for the information you are requesting and will contact you to provide this information by phone, email, or in writing.

How long will it take?

The process of a file review and release of non-identifying information may take two to three weeks. This is needed for the social worker to have your file retrieved from its secure, stored location, carefully review and find the information you are requesting.

Fees

Wide Horizons For Children does not charge fees for a file search and release of non-identifying information. Instead, you may consider making a donation to one of our humanitarian aid funds.

Additional Information

If you would like to speak with a Post Adoption Counselor about obtaining information from your file, or need additional information, please contact:

Pat Hoopes, MSW, LICSW
phoopes@whfc.org
781.419.0378

NOTE: All requests for the release of non-identifying information must be made in writing. Permission to release identifying information is required in writing from all relevant parties. Wide Horizons For Children adheres to Massachusetts General Law c.210 section 5D governing the release of adoption information. More information is available at www.mass.gov.