If you're considering using a Safe Haven Baby Box in Maryland, it's likely because you want to protect your baby while staying anonymous. While Safe Haven laws exist to keep babies safe in emergencies, they are not the only — or the best — choice for many women in crisis.

You deserve to know all of your options before making a decision that potentially can't be undone.

When you choose adoption through American Adoptions, you gain access to support, financial assistance, and — most importantly — the ability to shape your baby's future.

How Do Safe Haven Baby Boxes Work?

A Safe Haven Baby Box is a climate-controlled, secure drawer installed at designated locations like hospitals or fire stations. These boxes allow a woman to legally and anonymously surrender her newborn without facing criminal charges, as long as the baby is within the age limit defined by state law.

Here is how it works:

These boxes are open 24/7, offering an anonymous option — but not a personal one. If you're asking, "Can I legally give up my baby anonymously?" — the answer is yes. But it's also important to ask: is that really what you want, or do you wish you could stay connected in some way?

You can choose both privacy and peace of mind through confidential adoption, where you can remain anonymous while still choosing the adoptive family.

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

When you're in crisis, Safe Haven may feel like the fastest way to surrender your baby and walk away. But adoption offers more — not only for your baby, but for you.

Here’s how adoption gives you choices and dignity that Safe Haven does not:

With a Safe Haven Box, the choice is final. There is no guarantee your baby will be adopted. They may be placed in temporary foster care, and you won't be able to receive updates or reclaim your rights.

Learn more about how you can receive financial support through adoption.

Understanding Safe Haven Laws in Maryland: What You Should Know

According to Maryland's Safe Haven Law, you can surrender a baby up to 10 days old at a hospital or law enforcement station — no questions asked.

You are protected from prosecution as long as you hand the baby over to an employee or place them in a Safe Haven Baby Box (where available).

Are There Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Maryland?

As of now, Maryland has authorized the installation of Safe Haven Baby Boxes, but none have been installed yet. While the Safe Haven law is in effect, you will not find any automated boxes currently available in the state.

Note: If you decide to utilize a Safe Haven Baby Box in a neighboring state, you will need to educate yourself on that state’s safe haven laws

Safe Haven Baby Boxes Near Me

If you're searching for a “Safe Haven Baby Box near me,” it's important to know that Maryland and its neighboring states — including Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia — currently do not have any active Safe Haven Baby Boxes.

While these states all offer Safe Haven protection laws, they require that a newborn be handed directly to a person — typically at a hospital, police station, or fire station. These locations do not offer anonymous drop boxes.

To confirm the latest availability of Safe Haven Baby Boxes nationwide, you can use the official Safe Haven Baby Box location map.

If you're looking for a private, supportive way to create a better future for your baby, adoption remains the safest and most empowering option. It gives you control over the process, emotional and financial support, and the ability to remain anonymous if needed.

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

After you surrender your child:

• The state assumes full custody
• The child may enter the foster system before being placed with adoptive parents
• You give up all rights to receive information or updates about the child
• In nearly all cases, you cannot get your baby back

If you want a chance to receive updates or choose your baby's adoptive family, adoption through a licensed agency is the only way to preserve that connection.

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

Adoption isn't giving up. It's giving more. When you work with American Adoptions, you gain:

You deserve support and the power to shape your future. When you choose adoption, you get the support you need, and your baby gets the best chance at life with the people you chose, and a plan you created.

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

Even if your baby is already born, it's not too late to make an adoption plan. You can still receive financial support, create a plan, and choose your baby's adoptive family.

Find out how to start your adoption plan today.

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

You may feel like the only way to protect yourself is to disappear. But adoption doesn't require you to give up your privacy. You can stay anonymous — and still know your child is safe and loved.

Even if you never meet the adoptive family, you can still choose them. And you can still receive updates, if and when you're ready.

FAQ About Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Maryland

What Makes Safe Haven Boxes Safe for Babies?

These boxes are:

• Temperature-controlled to prevent heat or cold exposure
• Equipped with ventilation for fresh air
• Automatically locked once closed
• Monitored with internal alarms and emergency alerts

They are safe — but limited in what they provide.

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

Generally, no. Once you surrender your child under Safe Haven laws, your rights are terminated and cannot be reinstated.

Can Safe Haven Babies Be Adopted?

Yes, but you will have no say in who adopts them. These children often enter foster care before becoming eligible for state-facilitated adoption.

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

Yes. Maryland allows surrender through Safe Haven only if the baby is 10 days old or younger.

What Does a Safe Haven Box Look Like?

It's a small, metal compartment on the side of a fire station or hospital. It's labeled "Safe Haven Baby Box Drop Off," with a pull-down door and soft bassinet inside.

What You Do Next Matters — and We Can Help

You are not alone. Whether you're considering adoption, Safe Haven, or just need someone to talk to, we are here to listen and guide you — with no pressure and no judgment.

Our Maryland Locations

We serve expectant mothers across the state of Maryland. Contact us anytime to learn more about your options and how we can support you. Call 1-800-ADOPTION for immediate assistance or fill out our quick form.

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.