Second Baby Surrendered in Mississippi Safe Haven Baby Box

A second infant was recently surrendered at a Safe Haven Baby Box located at Covington County Hospital in Collins, Mississippi, less than a year after the first surrender at this site. The baby, appearing stable, was immediately taken to Batson Children’s Hospital in Jackson for further care. Safe Haven Baby Boxes provide a secure, anonymous option for parents in crisis to surrender newborns without fear of judgment, as the doors lock automatically and alert hospital staff on closure. Founded by Monica Kelsey, who was herself abandoned as a baby, the organization operates 359 boxes nationwide to facilitate safe, anonymous infant surrender and closed adoption. Advocates emphasize the importance of anonymity and preparation in saving lives, noting that in 2024, 15 babies were surrendered through the Baby Box program. The success of these boxes is highlighted by local officials who affirm the system works as intended, ensuring surrendered infants receive timely care and are placed with adoptive families.