Are you looking for a safe haven baby box near you? If you’re considering surrendering your newborn, call or text 608-821-8221 for immediate assistance.
As of 2024, there is only one safe haven baby box in Wisconsin. This limited availability means you may need help finding the best option for your baby. Getting free support from an adoption agency can be an alternative that provides you with a better path forward for you and your baby.
Below, we will walk you through how safe haven baby boxes work, Wisconsin Safe Haven laws and the benefits of creating a plan with an adoption agency. For more information about placing your baby for adoption, fill out our online form.
What Is a Safe Haven Baby Box?
A safe haven baby box — sometimes called a “newborn safety device” or “baby drop-off box” — is a secure, legal option for parents who feel they cannot care for their newborn.
Some parents choose to use safe haven baby boxes because they are anonymous. The boxes are usually located in discreet locations and aren’t monitored by cameras. This allows birth parents to keep their identity private while safely surrendering their newborns. However, there are many drawbacks to placing your baby in a safe haven box in Wisconsin:
Your child will most likely go into the foster care system.
You will have no opportunity to receive additional support.
It may be impossible to ever reconnect with your child.
Instead of using a safe haven box, you could choose to work with an adoption agency. Your anonymity can still be maintained. But, unlike the drawbacks above, you will be able to choose the family you want for your baby, receive legally allowable financial assistance and have the option of staying connected through open adoption.
What Happens When a Baby Is Put in a Safe Haven Box?
Baby boxes contain a soft bed and can maintain a stable temperature year-round. Once the box is closed, it locks automatically and silently alert emergency services to retrieve the baby. This system guarantees that the baby receives prompt care while ensuring the parents remain anonymous.
Does Wisconsin Have a Safe Haven Law?
Yes, Wisconsin has a Safe Haven law that allows you to safely and legally surrender a baby under 72 hours old. Under this law, you can place your newborn in a baby box or hand them directly to any of the following professionals:
A law enforcement officer
An emergency medical services practitioner
A hospital staff member
Wisconsin’s Safe Haven Law is designed to offer you a safe, non-judgmental way to ensure your baby’s well-being. You are not required to give your name or address unless there are concerns about the infant’s health or if someone is forcing you to surrender the baby. However, there is an optional form you can fill out to help providers care for your baby.
Is There a Baby Box Near Me?
As of 2024, Wisconsin has one safe haven baby box, located at 230 Railroad Street in Reedsburg. Plans are underway to install additional boxes statewide throughout 2025. If there isn’t a baby box near you, you will need to hand your baby to one of the professionals listed in the Wisconsin Safe Haven law.
Depending on your situation and where you live, you may want to consider adoption instead of surrendering your baby. This option can offer you peace of mind and allow you to choose the family who will raise your child. Agencies like Adoptions of Wisconsin Inc. can provide support and guidance, helping you make a decision that meets both your needs and those of your baby.
Is Adoption Confidential?
Yes, adoption is a confidential process. While your social worker will need some basic information to proceed with the adoption, your identifying details will remain private unless you choose to share them. Your personal information will only be accessible to those involved in the adoption process, so you can rest assured that your privacy is respected.
Adoption is an option whether your due date is approaching, you’re at the hospital or you've brought your baby home. Your social worker will walk you through the steps based on your circumstances, providing you with options according to your preferences and needs.
What Are the Benefits of Adoption?
Adoption is a safe, loving choice that can offer your child long-term stability. Here are four of the key benefits of choosing adoption:
Free process: Placing your child for adoption is entirely free; there are no costs for birth parents.
Potential financial assistance: Depending on your circumstances, you could receive help with living expenses, medical costs and other necessary support.
Post-placement relationship: Many adoptions today are open, allowing you to stay in touch with your child and their adoptive family if that’s what you want.
Choosing the adoptive family: You’ll have the opportunity to choose the family who will raise your child. This can give you peace of mind when making your decision.
How Do You Place Your Baby for Adoption?
When you’re ready to start the adoption process, you can reach out to us online or by calling or texting 608-821-8221. Our caring social workers are here to provide you with all the information and support you need.
Typically, the first step is creating an adoption plan that reflects your preferences. This plan is unique to you, allowing you to decide how involved you’d like to be, the qualities you’re looking for in adoptive parents and the level of contact you’d like to have in the future.
