If you're exploring Michigan’s Safe Delivery Law, it likely means you’re looking for a safe, confidential way to ensure your baby is cared for. Whether you're still pregnant or have just given birth, this law gives you a legal way to place your baby in the care of professionals — no questions asked.

But that’s not the only path available. If you're looking for more support, more choice, and the opportunity to be involved in your baby’s future, adoption through a licensed agency like American Adoptions may be the right fit.

Exciting news: We are in process of becoming licensed in Michigan. Coming Soon!

How Do Safe Haven Baby Boxes Work?

Michigan allows the use of safe haven baby boxes, but legislation is needed to officially permit their installation. Michigan's Safe Delivery of Newborns Law already allows parents to surrender newborns to hospitals, police, and fire stations. 

Safe Haven Baby Boxes are secured, climate-controlled devices typically installed at designated public buildings like hospitals or fire stations. These boxes allow for a completely anonymous surrender of a newborn. Once the baby is placed inside, an alarm is triggered, alerting staff who immediately retrieve and care for the infant.

Here is how it works:

Although Baby Boxes provide a private surrender option, they are not currently available in Michigan. And for many women, placing a baby in a box — with no information about what happens next — can leave more unanswered questions than peace of mind.

That’s why private adoption is often the better choice for women who want privacy but also compassion, guidance, and a voice in what happens next.

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

Michigan’s Safe Delivery Law is focused on immediate safety. Adoption focuses on long-term support — for both you and your child. It allows you to remain in control, even if you want to stay anonymous.

Here’s how the two options compare:

When you work with an adoption agency like American Adoptions, you can still stay private, but you’ll receive financial support, professional guidance, and the ability to choose the adoptive family. You don’t lose your voice — you gain support.

Understanding Safe Haven Laws in Michigan: What You Need to Know

Michigan’s Safe Delivery Law allows you to legally surrender a baby up to 72 hours old. You can bring your baby to a hospital, fire station, police station, or call 911 to surrender to a first responder. As long as the baby is handed to a professional and appears unharmed, you won’t face legal consequences.

Once the baby is surrendered, they are placed in the care of a licensed child-placing agency for adoption.

Are There Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Michigan?

At this time, Michigan has not installed any official Safe Haven Baby Boxes. While state legislation has been proposed to allow for their use, no boxes have been approved or put into operation.

If anonymity is important to you, know that in-person surrender under the Safe Delivery Law can still be private. You’re not required to share your name, and your legal protection remains intact.

Safe Haven Baby Boxes Near Michigan

Currently, neighboring states like Indiana have operational Safe Haven Baby Boxes — but Michigan does not. Other nearby states, including Ohio, Wisconsin, and Illinois, also do not have active baby boxes at this time.

To stay updated on where Safe Haven Baby Boxes are available, visit the official Safe Haven Baby Box map.

If you're looking for both privacy and peace of mind, adoption allows you to remain anonymous while still being involved in your baby’s future — something no Safe Haven Box can offer.

What Happens After You Use a Safe Haven Location in Michigan?

When you use the Safe Delivery Law to surrender your baby:

• Medical professionals will care for the baby immediately
• The baby will be placed with a licensed adoption agency
• Your parental rights are permanently relinquished
• You won’t receive updates or have any involvement in the adoption process

This process ensures safety — but not choice. If you want to select the adoptive family or maintain some level of connection, adoption through an agency is the only option that allows that.

How Adoption Can Provide a Brighter Future — for Both of You

Adoption allows you to make a plan — not just a one-time decision. Through American Adoptions, you’ll have access to:

You can create a plan that reflects your wishes. You’ll choose the adoptive family, decide on the level of contact you want, and receive financial assistance to ease your burden during this time.

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

If you’ve already given birth, it’s still possible to make an adoption plan. Many women don’t make their decision until after they’ve delivered — and that’s okay.

We’re here to help you explore your options whenever you're ready, without pressure.

You Can Stay Private — and Still Be Involved

If you want to keep your identity private, adoption gives you that option. You can choose a closed or semi-open adoption, where your information is protected but you can still receive updates or letters.

You stay in control — and you get to decide how much or how little you want to be involved.

FAQ About Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Michigan

What Makes Safe Haven Boxes Safe for Babies?

Safe Haven Baby Boxes are designed to:

• Provide a temperature-controlled, ventilated environment
• Trigger silent alarms when opened
• Alert nearby emergency personnel
• Allow for swift retrieval and medical care

These boxes ensure safety, but they do not currently exist in Michigan.

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

No. Once your baby is surrendered under the Safe Delivery Law, your parental rights are terminated and cannot be reinstated.

Can Safe Haven Babies Be Adopted?

Yes. These babies are placed with licensed adoption agencies and matched with approved adoptive families. However, you do not have a say in who adopts your baby.

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

Yes. To legally use the Safe Delivery Law, the baby must be 72 hours (3 days) old or younger.

What Does a Safe Haven Box Look Like?

Although not available in Michigan, a typical Safe Haven Baby Box is a small, insulated compartment installed in the exterior wall of a fire station or hospital. It has a pull-down door, interior bassinet, and alerts staff as soon as it’s used.

What You Do Next Matters — And We’re Here to Help

Whatever you decide, you deserve support and honest answers. Whether you’re leaning toward Safe Haven or adoption, we’re here to listen, answer your questions, and help you make a plan that feels right for you.

Our Michigan Locations

American Adoptions supports expectant mothers across the entire state of Michigan. If you're considering your options and need someone to talk to, we’re always available.

Call 1-800-ADOPTION or fill out our confidential contact form to speak with a specialist now.

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