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Abandoned Babies & Safe Havens
The first days in the life of an infant are critical. Unfortunately, the problem of young mothers abandoning their new infants is not uncommon these days. Abandoning them in unsafe places where they may not be found is a reality and sadly, law enforcement is usually first on the scene of the crime. Because of the trauma of finding an abandoned baby, law enforcement has come up with a viable solution in saving 2 lives. That of the baby from a dumpster and of the mother from criminal prosecution. All 50 States have signed on to this important endeavor.
Safe Haven Law Basics: In general, Safe Haven Laws allow a parent to anonymously leave an unwanted newborn baby in a safe place without the worry of getting into trouble. The child is then given to the state's Child Welfare Department where a loving, adoptive forever family can be found.
Safe Havens include:
What is being done at the national level?
Former President Bush signed the Promoting Safe and Stable Families Amendments of 2001 (HR 2873) enabling states to use resources to prevent child abuse and infant neglect. It requires the Secretary of US Dept. of Health & Human Services to report to Congress.
Hidden Choices recommends these four organizations:
A Safe Haven For Newborns in Florida
"To eliminate infant abandonment in FLorida thru education, prevention and community involvement and to assist pregnant girls/women to realize a productive future." www.safehavenfornewborns.com
(877) 440.2229
Illinois: Save Abandoned Babies
"The Save Abandoned Babies Foundation began in March 2000. Their mission is to save the lives of newborns that might otherwise be abandoned unsafely in Illinois."
(888) 510.2229
Texas The Baby Moses Project
"The Baby Moses Project was established to address an alarming increase in newborns being abandoned in perilous places. The Mission of the project is to publicize a confidential, and safe alternative to newborn abandonment."
(361) 578.6694
Project Cuddle
"Project Cuddle is a non-profit organization that offers safe and legal alternatives to baby abandonment. Project Cuddle runs a confidential toll-free 24-hour hotline for pregnant girls and women who find themselves scared and feel that they have no hope or that anyone can help them through this frightening time in their lives.
English: (888) 628.3353
Spanish: (888) 483.2323
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