Another big announcement to come from MyHeritage recently is that they are extending DNA Quest — their pro bono initiative to reunite adoptees and their biological families through free genetic testing.

Millions of people around the world are adopted, and many are searching for their biological parents or siblings. Currently available avenues for searching include formal adoption records, adoption agencies, and genetic genealogy. Formal adoption records are often unavailable or difficult to obtain, and research can be frustrating, costly, and time-consuming. Meanwhile, every year some adoptees and their biological relatives pass away, missing the chance to reunite — so this search is time-sensitive. Fortunately, genetic genealogy opens new doors in the search for relatives and reunions can sometimes happen in the blink of an eye: all it takes is a single match. MyHeritage believes everyone should be able to access this valuable technology.

Visit the DNA Quest Website to Apply

They write …

In March 2018 we launched DNA Quest, a pro bono initiative in which we pledged to donate 15,000 DNA kits to adoptees and those seeking to reunite with family members who were placed for adoption. Within a few months, all the DNA kits we allocated for this initiative were sent out. Applicants opened up to us to share their emotional stories of searching, their hopes for future reunions, and the sense of belonging they felt thanks to their participation in DNA Quest. Our hearts rejoiced when some participants of DNA Quest were blessed with the fulfillment of their lifelong dream of reuniting with their family thanks to the free DNA tests we gave them. DNA Quest. New successes are still occurring as our DNA database grows.

Following the success of the initiative, we have decided now to extend DNA Quest and donate 5,000 additional MyHeritage DNA kits, for free, to eligible participants.

With one of the fastest-growing DNA databases in the industry, currently numbering 2.5 million people worldwide (double the size when we launched DNA Quest one year ago), the largest database that accepts free uploads of DNA tests taken on other services, and a compassionate spirit, MyHeritage is uniquely positioned to help people find their biological relatives.

HOW TO APPLY
Adoptees and family members searching for their biological relatives have until 30 April, 2019 to apply for a free MyHeritage DNA kit at www.dnaquest.org. MyHeritage says that participants will be selected, and their free DNA kits will be shipped to them by June 16, 2019, and results are expected as early as August 2019. As supply is limited, preference will be given to people who are not able to afford genetic testing, and to those who sign up first.

MORE INFORMATION
The DNA Quest website includes additional information about the initiative and a detailed section with answers to frequently asked questions.

www.dnaquest.org

SPREAD THE WORD
If you know anyone who may benefit from DNA Quest, please help by spreading the word on social media and include a link to the www.dnaquest.org website. And if you can benefit from this yourself, don’t hesitate to apply now.