April is known nationally as Safe Haven month, a time to recognize safe alternatives to infant abandonment by promoting Safe Haven laws. The National Safe Haven Alliance announces that more than 4,510 babies have been saved nationally utilizing the Safe Haven law. Please take this opportunity to celebrate the lives of each and every child saved in the last 22 years. This life saving alternative will continue as long as there is a need to save these special newborns.
The Safe Haven law which passed here in Indiana in 2001 provides this safe alternative for a mother in crisis unable or unwilling to care for her newborn, to safely hand her unharmed baby (within 30 days of birth), to an emergency medical provider at a hospital, staffed fire department, law enforcement, as well as contacting 911. All are Safe Haven Providers in Indiana.
Our hearts are full today because of the children that are bringing joy to this world because of the safety provided by Safe Haven laws. Anonymous placement allows a parent in crisis to consider the alternatives to abandoning their infant. Safe Haven leaders across the country have worked to support and provide the resources needed to help a mother or parent in their critical time of need. By walking alongside a parent in their crisis, they are not alone, they want someone to offer them HOPE and that is what NSHA and the mission of Safe Haven gives.
The first law was enacted in 1999, and to date over 4,510 infants have been saved using Safe Haven laws. Not only has this law saved many lives, this option has helped connect thousands of parents to resources for parenting their child, temporary placement, or traditional adoption. Please assist awareness efforts to help end infant abandonment in the U.S. and the world.
Anonymity is a critical component of how we successfully support parents in crisis, because of trained subject matter experts operating the national 24/7 helpline, confidential and caring support is provided, and the love and care given to each parent is vital to the outcome for both mother and their baby.
NSHA is recognized as a non-profit charity. Call the 24/7 Safe Haven crisis response team for support, options and resources at 1-888-510-BABY or learn more at www.nationalsafehavenalliance.org.
