DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP, Ohio — A new initiative is offering mothers in crisis a safe and anonymous option to surrender their newborns.
On Wednesday, Deerfield Township introduced its first Safe Haven Baby Box at Fire Station 57 on Montgomery Road. This is the 323rd baby box in the country and the 14th in Ohio.
“We hope that no one ever needs to use it, but if they do, we want to ensure help is available for mothers in crisis,” said Lelle Lutts Hedding, a trustee for Deerfield Township.
The box, located at the fire station’s entrance, is accessible 24/7 to mothers in need.
Deputy Fire Chief Matt Hannigan explained, “When the door opens, an orange bag containing information will drop onto the ground. The mother can place her baby in the box and close the door, which will lock automatically.”
This action triggers an alarm, notifying firefighters who can immediately provide care and contact children’s services.
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