If you’re searching for information about Safe Haven baby boxes, it may mean you’re in a situation that feels impossible. Maybe you’ve just given birth or are about to, and you feel like you can’t raise your baby.

You’re not alone. Many expectant parents have been in this same place. Right now, you might feel like you have no other choice but to walk away quietly. But you do have options, including one that allows you to stay in control, protect your privacy and give your baby a life filled with opportunity and love.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Safe Haven baby boxes in Connecticut, what happens when you use them and how adoption may be the better option for you and your child. If you want to talk to someone right now, you can call 1-800-ADOPTION or fill out our online form.

What Is a Safe Haven Baby Box, and How Does It Work?

Safe Haven baby boxes are secure drop-off containers typically installed in fire stations or hospitals. You can place a newborn inside anonymously, triggering an immediate alert so nearby medical staff can retrieve the baby within minutes.

However, there are no Safe Haven baby boxes in Connecticut. The state only allows in-person surrenders. You will need to visit a hospital emergency room and hand your baby to on-duty staff. Just know that you won’t get in trouble for using a Safe Haven location.

Safe Haven Boxes vs. Adoption: What’s Right for You?

You may be wondering, "Can I legally give up a baby anonymously?" Safe Haven laws make that possible, but there’s a better way to do it.

If you choose Safe Haven, you miss out on:

• Choosing the family who raises your child

• Receiving emotional and financial support

• The chance to stay in contact with your child through open or semi-open adoption

With adoption, you can still protect your privacy while creating a personalized plan. You can browse profiles of adoptive families and choose the one that feels right. You can receive support throughout your pregnancy and even after placement. And there’s no cost to you.

See how Safe Haven and private adoption compare:

If you want to take an active role in choosing your baby’s future, adoption may be the path for you.

Understanding Safe Haven Laws in Connecticut: What You Should Know

The Safe Haven law in Connecticut allows you to legally surrender a baby up to 30 days old at a hospital emergency room.

When you arrive:

• A nurse will meet you in private.

• You may be asked for medical history or identifying details, but you don’t have to answer.

• You will receive information about your legal rights.

Within 24 hours, the hospital must contact the Department of Children and Families (DCF), which will take custody and begin the process to terminate your parental rights.

Are There Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Connecticut?

No. Tthere are currently no Safe Haven baby boxes in Connecticut. However, there are designated locations where you can surrender your baby.

Safe Haven Baby Box Locations Near Me

The nearest Safe Haven baby box is in Pennsylvania. But you can still legally surrender your baby at any hospital emergency room in Connecticut.

Here are some locations in Connecticut you can go to:

• Bridgeport: Bridgeport Hospital

• New Haven: Yale New Haven Hospital

• Stamford: Stamford Health

• Hartford: Hartford Hospital

• Waterbury: Saint Mary’s Hospital

For more locations, visit the 211 Connecticut website.

What Happens After You Use a Baby Box or Safe Haven Location in Connecticut?

Once you surrender your baby:

• DCF takes custody within 24 hours.

• A court hearing is scheduled to terminate your parental rights.

• If you gave your name or the father’s name, you will be notified.

• If no identifying info is given, a notice will be published in a local newspaper.

• The child will be placed in foster care and later adopted through the state.

This is a permanent legal decision. You won't be able to receive updates on your baby unless you choose to place them for open adoption instead.

How Adoption Can Provide a Brighter Future for You and Your Baby

You might ask yourself, "Is adoption better than Safe Haven?" For many women, the answer is yes.

Here are some of the benefits of adoption:

Choosing adoption is not "giving up." It’s giving your baby the life you wish you could provide.

There’s No Rush — Adoption Can Happen Before or After Birth

Even if you’ve already given birth, it’s not too late to choose adoption. There’s no deadline to make this decision.

You can still:

• Choose a family

• Receive financial support

• Get help creating your adoption plan

When you're ready, you can browse profiles of waiting families online.

How You Can Maintain Your Privacy Without Sacrificing Your Peace of Mind

If you're concerned about staying anonymous, adoption can still offer you the privacy you need. In a semi-open or closed adoption, your identifying information can be kept confidential.

If you want updates but don't feel comfortable with direct contact, a semi-open adoption might be a good fit. Your agency can pass along photos and letters from the adoptive family. You get to decide what kind of relationship you want.

Learn more about how we keep your adoption plan private.

FAQ About Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Connecticut

What Makes Safe Haven Boxes Safe for Babies?

Baby boxes feature climate control, ventilation, locking mechanisms and an alarm that immediately notifies staff when a baby is placed inside.

Can You Get Your Baby Back After Safe Haven in Connecticut?

Yes. It is difficult but not impossible. You must contact DCF immediately and request reunification. You’ll need to apply to the court for an attorney. Because parental rights can be terminated at the first hearing, timing is critical.

Can Safe Haven Babies Be Adopted?

Yes. But not through private adoption. Once surrendered, your baby is placed into the state foster care system. You will not choose the adoptive family or receive updates.

Is There a Safe Haven Baby Box Age Limit in Connecticut?

Yes. The Safe Haven baby box age limit in Connecticut is 30 days.

What Does a Safe Haven Box Look Like?

Safe Haven baby boxes are usually located outside of buildings and contain a temperature-controlled bassinet. Once the door is opened, an alarm is triggered to alert staff.

What You Do Next Matters [And We Can Help]

You don’t have to walk away from your baby. You can create a plan that gives them a future full of love, opportunity and support.

Call us at 1-800-ADOPTION or contact us online to speak with a specialist who understands what you’re going through and can help you take the next step.

Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.