HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania’s safe haven law allows parents to confidentially turn over unwanted infants, up to 28 days old, to any hospital as an alternative to abandonment, Department of Public Welfare Secretary Estelle B. Richman reminded parents in response to another report of an abandoned baby.
On Nov. 15, a newborn baby boy was found wrapped in a blanket in front of a home in Abington, Montgomery County. A note left with the child asked that the infant be taken to a hospital. According to authorities, the child was treated at Abington Hospital for exposure to the cold and released to the custody of Montgomery County Children and Youth Services while police continue their efforts to locate the parents.
Last weekend, a newborn boy was discovered on the porch of a home near Harrisburg. The child was unharmed and the mother later was identified.
“It is a great relief that these children were found unharmed, but these are exactly the kind of situations that Pennsylvania’s safe haven law was designed to prevent,” said Richman. “Young women who are not prepared for the responsibilities of parenthood may be afraid and are unsure of where to turn for help. We want them to know that there is a safe, legal and confidential option for them and their child.”
There are nearly 270 hospitals in Pennsylvania where parents may safely surrender a baby if they fear they cannot care for the child. Babies can be handed over to any hospital staff member. If the parent is unwilling or unable to wait, they should look for signs instructing them where to place the baby. As long as the child is unharmed, the parents will not be asked any questions.
It is recommended, but not required, that the parent provide medical information for the child. A baby turned over to a hospital will receive necessary medical care. The county’s child and youth agency will work to find the child a family through the state’s foster care system.
Pennsylvania is one of 48 states with a safe haven law. To date, five babies have been saved through the program.
To learn more about the safe haven program, visit here or call toll-free, 1-866-921-SAFE (7233).