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Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Georgia: What to Know Before You Walk Away

You may be considering a safe haven baby box in Georgia because you're scared, overwhelmed, and just want to make sure your baby is safe. These feelings are valid. But before you make a decision, it’s important to understand all your options—especially the ones that could give your baby the bright future you dream of for them.

With adoption through American Adoptions, you can create a plan that protects your privacy, gives you control, and ensures your baby is placed with a loving family you choose.

Speak with a specialist today to learn how adoption can give your baby a safe, beautiful future—and give you peace of mind.

How Do Safe Haven Baby Boxes Work?

A safe haven baby box allows a woman to anonymously and legally surrender her baby at a designated location, usually at a fire station or hospital. These boxes are designed to protect the baby from harm while alerting medical personnel to retrieve the child.

When you use a safe haven box:

  • Open the outside door and place your baby inside, the box locks automatically.

  • When the box is opened, an alert notifies first responders, who retrieve the baby within minutes and provide medical care.

  • No questions are asked. You remain anonymous.

This process is completely legal under safe haven law in participating states. However, while it provides anonymity and safety, it means surrendering your baby without ever knowing what happens next.

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

Safe HavenPrivate Adoption
CostFreeFree
Who AdoptsUnknownYour choice
Financial supportNoYes
Child age limit72 hoursUnborn-3 years

Your baby deserves a beautiful future. With adoption, you create that future and can take comfort knowing the choice you made shaped their life in the best way.

Understanding Safe Haven Laws in Georgia: What You Should Know

In Georgia, the safe haven law allows you to leave your baby (up to 30 days old) at any medical facility, fire station, or police station without facing legal consequences.

You must:

  • Hand the baby to an employee or use a designated baby box (if available)
  • Make sure the baby shows no signs of abuse or neglect

Once surrendered, the baby becomes a ward of the state and enters foster care. You will not have the opportunity to reclaim your child.

Are There Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Georgia?

No, there are not currently any safe haven baby boxes available in Georgia. Designated locations like fire stations, hospitals and police stations adhere to Georgia's Safe Haven Law, but safe haven baby boxes have not yet been authorized.

Safe Haven Baby Boxes Near Me

Here are some safe haven box locations near Georgia:

You can find an updated map of all safe haven baby box locations here.

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

Once you surrender your baby:

  • Medical personnel will retrieve them and ensure they are safe and healthy
  • The baby will be placed in state foster care
  • A state court will be involved to investigate the child’s circumstances and decide whether it is appropriate to order temporary guardianship to a caregiver, custody to the State of Georgia through their Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS); or custody to a caregiver.
  • If a child is “abandoned,” there must be a valid court order giving authority to a specific person or DHS/DFCS to take care of that child.

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

Adoption is a brave, selfless decision that puts the best interests of your baby first. It’s a decision made out of love, giving your baby a world of opportunities.

Choosing adoption with American Adoptions means:

Benefits For You

  • Help With Rent and Bills
  • 24/7 Birth Mother Support
  • Birth Father Answers
  • Control Over Your Adoption
  • Pursue Your Future Dreams
  • A Better Life For Your Child

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. You can:

  • Receive the same support and financial assistance
  • Still choose the adoptive family
  • Create a plan that gives you confidence and peace

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

If you are thinking about using a safe haven baby box because you want to stay anonymous, you should know that adoption can also protect your privacy—without taking away your ability to shape your baby’s future.

With a private adoption through American Adoptions, you can:

  • Keep your information completely confidential
  • Choose whether you want any contact with the adoptive family
  • Select the perfect family for your baby
  • Stay in control while remaining anonymous if you wish

This gives you the peace of mind of knowing your baby is safe, happy, and loved—without losing your privacy.

FAQ About Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Georgia

What Makes Safe Haven Boxes Safe for Babies?

Safe haven baby boxes are:

  • Temperature-controlled
  • Equipped with ventilation
  • Designed with a lock and internal alarm system
  • Staffed with trained responders to ensure immediate care

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

Generally, no. Once you use a safe haven baby box or surrender at a location, your rights are terminated, and you cannot reclaim your baby.

Can Safe Haven Babies Be Adopted?

Yes, but not through a private agency. Safe haven babies enter state custody and may be adopted through foster care. You won’t get to choose the family or receive updates.

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

Yes. In Georgia, babies up to 30 days old can be surrendered under the safe haven law.

What Does a Safe Haven Box Look Like?

A safe haven baby box:

  • Resembles a small door with "Safe Haven Baby Box Drop Off" signage
  • Opens from the outside
  • Contains a secure, bassinet-style bed inside

What You Do Next Matters—And We Can Help

You want to do what’s best for your baby. Adoption with American Adoptions gives you a chance to create the future you envision for them.

 You don’t have to disappear. You can stay connected, receive help, and make the most selfless, loving decision.

Our Georgia Locations

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.

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