Help is available for pregnant individuals or those who recently had a baby and are not ready to be a parent or start a family.
Individuals can safely and anonymously hand over an unharmed baby up to 60 days old.
You don't have to answer any questions, and it's legal through a program called Safe Haven. The goal is to give parents a safe alternative and to give infants a healthy beginning.
211 is here to help connect Marylanders to local Safe Haven locations. Dial 211 and speak to a caring and compassionate person who will provide reliable and clear support.
You must use a designated Safe Haven location when handing off the baby.
Say, "This is a Safe Haven baby."
Find A Safe Haven Location
Parents can hand off their child in person to someone at a designated facility. These locations include a firehouse, police station, or designated medical office.
Search for a location by ZIP code or dial 211 to speak to a caring person who can find a Safe Haven location.
What is Safe Haven?
A program designed to protect the newborn from danger or death and to protect you from legal action.
The child can be handed over without arrest or prosecution within 60 days of birth.
What do you mean by unharmed?
That means the infant is not abused or neglected, and that there is no evidence of physical injury or failure to care for the child.
Where can babies be safely handed off?
The babies can be handed off anonymously at a Maryland hospital, designated medical office, police station or fire station. Tìm kiếm for a Safe Haven location by ZIP code or dial 211.
What should someone say during the handoff?
Simply say, "This is a Safe Haven baby," and walk away.
You may be asked questions about the baby's health and family health history so caregivers can provide better care for the infant, but there is no obligation to answer these questions.
I'm scared. Can someone else do the handoff for me?
Yes, as long as they are over 18 years of age. No questions need to be answered.
Just say, "This is a Safe Haven baby."
What will happen to the baby?
The infant will receive any necessary medical attention and will then be discharged to the local Department of Social Services and placed for adoption.
What if I change my mind?
The goal is to place the baby in a permanent, safe, stable home. However, individuals can contact their local Department of Social Services.
Where can the parent receive medical care?
If you are experiencing pain, heavy bleeding, or have a fever, go to the nearest emergency room or contact a medical doctor for help.
Remember, turning a baby over to Safe Haven is legal, and you will not face consequences.
Have other questions?
Dial 211, the Department of Human Services at 1-800-332-6347, or a local Department of Social Services. Calls are anonymous. Ask to speak to someone with Safe Haven.