There are currently no Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Oregon. However, Oregon's Safe Haven law allows you to legally and anonymously surrender a baby who is 60 days old or younger at a designated Safe Haven location. Safe Haven exists to protect babies during emergencies, but you are not alone, and it is not your only option.

Adoption allows you to keep your baby safe while giving you more control over their future. You can choose the adoptive family, receive financial and emotional support, and decide whether you want ongoing contact through open or semi-open adoption.

Has Your Baby Been Born?

It is not too late to choose adoption. If your baby has already been born, American Adoptions can help you create an adoption plan right away. We work with hundreds of thoroughly screened adoptive families across the country, many of whom are ready to welcome a baby into their home today.

You can receive immediate, free, and confidential support from an adoption specialist who will help you understand your options, choose the adoptive family, and make a plan that reflects your wishes. Depending on your situation and Oregon law, financial assistance and other support may also be available.

Safe Haven Laws in Oregon

Oregon's Safe Haven law allows a parent to legally and anonymously surrender an infant who is 60 days old or younger at an authorized Safe Haven location. Unlike some states, Oregon does not currently authorize Safe Haven Baby Boxes. Instead, the baby must be handed directly to a staff member at an approved facility. Under Oregon law:

• Age Limit: The baby must be 60 days old or younger and show no signs of abuse or neglect. 
• Approved Locations: You may surrender your baby at a hospital, freestanding birthing center, physician's office, police station, sheriff's office, or staffed fire station.
• Anonymous Surrender: You are not required to provide your name or any identifying information about yourself or your baby.
• In-Person Handoff Required: Oregon law requires you to place your baby in the physical custody of an employee, physician, or other staff member working at the authorized facility. Safe Haven Baby Boxes are not currently authorized in Oregon.

Are There Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Oregon?

No. Oregon does not currently have any Safe Haven Baby Boxes. Under Oregon law, a Safe Haven surrender must be made in person at an authorized location by handing your baby directly to an on-duty staff member.

If you're looking for a safe option for your baby, adoption is always available. Unlike a Safe Haven surrender, adoption allows you to choose the adoptive family, receive financial and emotional support, and create a plan that reflects your wishes.

At American Adoptions, we are available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide free, confidential guidance. Call 1-800-ADOPTION anytime to speak with an adoption specialist.

What Happens After You Use a Safe Haven Baby Box?

After a Safe Haven surrender, the authorized facility must notify the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) within 24 hours. From the time your baby is safely surrendered, ODHS assumes protective custody, and your baby will receive any necessary medical evaluation before being placed through Oregon's child welfare process.

Unlike adoption, a Safe Haven surrender does not allow you to choose who will raise your child or create a plan for their future. The state is responsible for determining your baby's placement, and you generally will not receive updates or have the opportunity to maintain contact with your child or the family who ultimately adopts them.

If having a say in your baby's future is important to you, adoption offers the opportunity to choose the adoptive family and create an adoption plan that reflects your wishes.

Adoption Can Give Your Baby Safety – and So Much More

Safe Haven laws are designed to protect a baby's immediate safety during an emergency. Adoption also gives your baby a safe future while allowing you to make thoughtful decisions about the life you want them to have.

Instead of leaving without knowing what happens next, adoption gives you the chance to watch your child grow and build a relationship over time. For many birth mothers, knowing their child is loved, and supported, brings comfort and peace in the years that follow.

With Adoption, You Don’t Have to Wonder What Happened to Your Baby

Adoption allows you to personally select the adoptive family for your baby by reviewing video profiles and backgrounds of pre-screened couples from Oregon and across the country. You can decide how much contact you want to maintain through open or semi-open adoption, including picture and letter updates, phone calls, or yearly visits.

By building a relationship with an adoptive family, you ensure your child grows up knowing how much they are loved and why you made such a selfless decision for their future. You never have to live with the lingering heartache of wondering where your baby went or who raised them.

Adoption Provides Support Before, During and After Birth

Choosing adoption gives you access to support throughout your pregnancy and after placement. Depending on Oregon law and your individual circumstances, financial assistance may be available to help with pregnancy-related living expenses, and you can receive free, confidential counseling whenever you need it.

You can also create a hospital plan that reflects your wishes and receive continued emotional support after placement. Whether your emotions include peace, sadness, relief, love, or a combination of many feelings, counseling and support remain available to help you navigate your adoption journey.

Get Confidential Adoption Help in Oregon Today

You do not have to use a Safe Haven surrender before learning about your options. Speak with an adoption specialist to understand how adoption can keep your baby safe while giving you more choice and support. Call 1-800-ADOPTION or fill out our online contact form for free, confidential guidance.

 

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