If you're thinking about a Safe Haven baby box in Pennsylvania, it likely means you're in a difficult situation and looking for a way to keep your baby safe without facing judgment.

First, take a deep breath. You’re not alone. Maybe no one else knows you're pregnant. Maybe you just gave birth and feel like you can't raise your child. We're here to help you make the best possible decision for you and your baby.

In this guide, you'll learn how Safe Haven boxes work, what the laws are in Pennsylvania and why adoption may be a better path forward. When you’re ready, you can talk to someone who will support you every step of the way. Call 1-800-ADOPTION or fill out our online form to get in touch.

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

A Safe Haven baby box offers a way to legally and anonymously surrender a newborn. These boxes are typically installed in hospitals or fire stations and are available 24/7. You can open the box, place your baby inside and walk away — no questions asked. You won’t get in trouble for using a baby box if your baby is unharmed and within the legal age limit.

What happens after you place a baby in the box? Once you place your baby inside, a silent alarm is triggered to alert on-site staff. Your baby will receive immediate medical care, and local authorities will take custody.

Here's how the process works:

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

If you're thinking about ways to legally give up a baby anonymously, you might be considering both Safe Haven boxes and private adoption. But there are important differences.

With a Safe Haven box, you don't get to know what happens next. You can’t choose the family. You don’t get updates. And you won’t have access to support or counseling.

With adoption, you’re in control. You get to pick the family. You can choose to have contact, updates or even an ongoing relationship with your child. Plus, adoption is free and comes with legal and emotional support.

Here’s how the two options compare:

Private adoption gives you the ability to create a plan that meets your needs. You don't have to rush — you can choose adoption at birth, at home or even after parenting for several months

Understanding Safe Haven Laws in Pennsylvania: What You Should Know

Pennsylvania has a Safe Haven law that allows you to surrender a newborn anonymously. Under this law, you can leave your baby (up to 28 days old) in a baby box or at a designated location with staff. As long as your baby is safe, you will not be in trouble.

The baby will be examined by a medical professional and then placed in the custody of county child services. At that point, your parental rights are terminated.

Are There Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Pennsylvania?

Yes, there are a few Safe Haven baby boxes in Pennsylvania where you can surrender a baby anonymously. You can also go to a hospital, police station or EMS station.

Safe Haven Baby Box Locations Near Me

Here's where the Safe Haven baby boxes are located in Pennsylvania:

• Lancaster: Lancaster General Hospital

• McConnellsburg: McConnellsburg Volunteer Fire Company

• State College: Penn Highlands Healthcare

To find your nearest location, visit Project Safe Haven Baby Box.

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

After you place your baby in a Safe Haven box:

• Your parental rights are permanently terminated.

• Child Protective Services takes custody.

• Your baby may go into foster care before adoption.

• You won't receive updates or information about where they go.

If staying connected matters to you, private adoption could be a better choice. It gives you the chance to know how your baby is doing. You can receive letters and photos from the adoptive family you choose for your baby and even schedule visits.

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

Is adoption better than Safe Haven? For many women, the answer is yes.

With adoption, you're not giving up. You're making the brave choice to give your baby the best start in life.

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 take your time, explore your options and still receive the same support and financial help.

When you're ready, you can start browsing profiles of waiting families. We work with hundreds of families across the U.S., so you can find a family that feels right for you.

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

One of the best things about private adoption is that it's confidential. You can choose a closed or semi-open adoption, depending on what you’re comfortable with. That means:

• Your name doesn't have to be shared.

• You can decide whether you want contact.

• You can control what kind of relationship (if any) you have with the adoptive family.

Learn more about how we protect your privacy.

FAQ About Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Pennsylvania

What Makes Safe Haven Boxes Safe for Babies?

These boxes include temperature control, ventilation, auto-locking doors and alarms that notify staff within seconds. They are designed to keep babies safe until they are retrieved.

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

No. Once you surrender a baby through a Safe Haven location, your rights are terminated.

Can Safe Haven Babies Be Adopted?

Yes. Most babies are placed in foster care and later adopted, but you won’t get to choose the family or receive updates.

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

Yes. You must surrender your baby within 28 days of birth.

What Does a Safe Haven Box Look Like?

They usually say "Safe Haven Baby Box" and include a door with a bassinet-style bed inside. Once closed, it locks and alerts staff.

What You Do Next Matters [And We Can Help]

If you're not ready to parent, you still have time and options. Give your baby the future they deserve.

If you're ready, you can talk to someone who understands what you're going through.

Our Pennsylvania Locations

Here are our local offices:

Lewistown

3 W. Monument Square, Suite 210

Lewistown, PA 17044

Philadelphia

1 International Plaza, Suite 550

Philadelphia, PA 19113

Pittsburgh

301 Grant St., Suite 270

Pittsburgh, PA 15219

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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.