TERRE HAUTE, Ind. — The latest Safe Haven Baby Box will be installed in Terre Haute.
The newest addition represents a "significant step forward" in their mission to provide a "safe and anonymous alternative" to surrendering an infant, officials said.
The new box will be deployed at the Riley Fire Department, located at 6633 State Road Hwy. 159.
“We have seen time and time again, that preparation can save and change lives," said Monica Kelsey, founder of Safe Haven Baby Box. "We never know when or where we will be needed, so it is crucial to have options for mothers in crisis. I am grateful for local advocates who take our mission to their community.”
Safe Haven Baby Boxes are temperature-controlled and sound an alarm to alert firefighters when an infant is placed inside. The baby is then retrieved within three minutes or less. Once taken out of the box, the baby is checked by medics, taken to the hospital and then placed with a family who will adopt the baby.
Indiana's Safe Haven Law allows moms in crisis to give up an unwanted infant without fear of prosecution.
There are now 275 Safe Haven Baby Boxes across the United States.
The National Safe Haven Crisis Line has helped with over 150 handoff surrenders. Each year, officials said the numbers increase with more baby boxes available across the country. Surrendered infants are adopted by families who have registered as foster to adopt.
In addition to baby boxes, the organization provides a confidential National Hotline, 1-866-99BABY1.
To find a Safe Haven Baby Box location, click here.