How to Place a Newspaper Ad

Do not use a box number from the newspaper because many people clip and save the ads for several months before replying. By that time, your contract with the newspaper is finished and any mail received will be destroyed. Often it will be a friend or relative of the person you are seeking who will spot the ad.
  
Make sure the ad contains the following information:

Who is searching for whom
Full birth information (birth date, birth name, birth place)
A reasonable excuse for conducting the search
The choice of reply method (phone or mail)

Example for Adoptees Searching

Adoptee, John Smith, Jan.22, 1942, Ottawa On, Grace hosp, seeks medical history from birth family. Write "John Smith" (include your home address) or call "support group phone number".

Example for Birth Relative Searching

Smith, John, DOB Jan 22, 1942, Ottawa On, Grace Hosp, your birth family wishes to share medical and family history. Call "support group phone number" or write to "John Smith" (include your home address).

Ads Do Work

If possible, have your ad boxed with a border to highlight your message more clearly in the want ads. Use the Personal Messages section of the Want Ads.

Try to include something from the non-identifying information (eg: birth mother – student, nurse, bank president etc.)

The Ontario Communities Newspaper Association will arrange for a "blanket ad" to be placed in all community papers of a designated area on a certain day. This gives greater coverage for those searching in more rural areas. Call your local newspaper.

Consider placing your ad at key times of the year and of your life. Your Birthday, Christmas, Mother's Day and on Saturdays and Sundays when people are more apt to read the want ads.

Use your Support Group Phone Number is to avoid prank calls.

Consult your local Support Group if you have any questions about the wording of your ad.

GOOD LUCK!