If you're pregnant or just gave birth and know you can't raise a child right now, it’s easy to think your only choice is to walk away.

If that’s where you are — overwhelmed, scared — please know that you're not alone. No matter what you’re facing, there’s a path forward that protects your baby and gives you peace of mind.

In this article, you’ll learn how Safe Haven boxes work, what your rights are under Oregon law, and, most importantly, why adoption may be a better path. You can connect with an adoption specialist any time by calling 1-800-ADOPTION or filling out our online form.

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

A Safe Haven baby box is a secure, temperature-controlled device installed in a building like a hospital or fire station. It allows you to legally and anonymously surrender a newborn at any time.

Once you open the door and place your baby inside, it locks automatically. What happens after you place a baby in the box is immediate: an alarm notifies staff, and your baby is retrieved and given medical care.

It's important to note that there aren't any Safe Haven baby boxes in Oregon. However, you can still surrender your baby to a hospital, doctor's office, birthing clinic, police station or fire station.

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

You won’t get in trouble for surrendering your baby. It is legal to give up a baby anonymously. But here’s what you miss out on when you choose that path: knowing who your baby will grow up with, where they’ll live and whether they’re safe and thriving.

Private adoption offers something different. Here's how your options compare:

Through adoption, you can give your baby a life full of love and opportunity while still being part of their story.

Understanding Safe Haven Laws in Oregon: What You Should Know

Oregon has a Safe Haven law that allows a parent to legally surrender an infant under specific conditions:

• You may leave a baby aged 60 days or younger.

• The baby must be left with a medical professional, police officer, firefighter, or staff at a hospital, doctor’s office, birthing clinic, police station or fire station.

• You don’t have to give your name or any identifying information.

Once your baby is surrendered, your parental rights end immediately. This means you get no say in who adopts your baby and no chance to change your mind later.

Are There Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Oregon?

Currently, there are no Safe Haven baby boxes in Oregon. However, there are Safe Haven locations where you can legally and anonymously surrender your baby.

Safe Haven Baby Box Locations Near Me

Wondering where the Safe Haven baby boxes are located? Oregon doesn’t have baby boxes, you can go to one of these Safe Haven facilities:

• Portland: Portland Fire and Rescue Station 1

• Salem: Salem Hospital

• Eugene: Eugene Police Department

• Gresham: Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center

• Hillsboro: Hillsboro Medical Center

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

When you surrender your baby under Oregon’s Safe Haven law:

• Your parental rights are immediately terminated.

• Child Protective Services takes custody.

• Your baby may enter the foster care system before being adopted.

• You won’t receive updates or know who adopts your child.

Surrendering your baby under Safe Haven law limits your options. But when you choose private adoption, you can give your baby a brighter future. You can pick out the perfect family, stay in touch after placement and know that they're loved wholeheartedly.

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

When you choose adoption, you’re not “giving up.” You’re choosing to give your baby the best possible start in life.

Adoption lets you create a personalized plan and pick a family who will give your baby everything you hope for. You’ll also get support, financial assistance and counseling — all for free.

Here's what adoption can offer:

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

Even if you’ve already given birth, you still have options. You can start the adoption process now without rushing. You’ll still be able to choose the adoptive family and receive financial help.

If you're ready to get started, you can view profiles of hopeful adoptive parents online. Each profile features letters, photos and a video to give you a glimpse into the family's everyday life.

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

Private adoption allows you to stay anonymous if you choose. Whether you want an open, semi-open or closed adoption, we’ll work with you to create a plan that feels right. Your name can remain confidential, and you can decide how involved you want to be.

Learn more about how we facilitate confidential adoptions.

FAQ About Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Oregon

What Makes Safe Haven Boxes Safe for Babies?

These boxes are built with features like temperature control, ventilation and automatic locks. They trigger alarms and alert 911 as soon as a baby is placed inside.

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

No. Once surrendered, the baby is considered abandoned, and the state assumes custody.

Can Safe Haven Babies Be Adopted?

Yes. Surrendered babies are usually placed into foster care and are adopted through the state. However, you do not get to choose the family or receive updates unless you move forward with private adoption.

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

Yes. The Safe Haven law only applies to babies 60 days old or younger.

What Does a Safe Haven Box Look Like?

Safe Haven baby boxes are usually panels on the sides of buildings labeled “Safe Haven Baby Box Drop Off.” Inside is a bassinet-style bed.

What You Do Next Matters [And We Can Help]

You can give your baby a life full of love, support and opportunity when you choose private adoption.

We can help you take the next step. If you’re ready to learn more about adoption or talk with someone who understands what you’re going through, call 1-800-ADOPTION or contact us online.

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.