Magnolia Fire Department Adds Safe, Anonymous Alternative for Infant Surrender

MAGNOLIA, TX -- Saving lives just got a little easier in Magnolia, TX, as the community prepares to celebrate the blessing of its newest Safe Haven Baby Box on September 3rd. This important addition marks a significant step forward in providing a safe and anonymous alternative for parents who may feel unable to care for their newborns.

Located at 18215 Buddy Riley Blvd., Magnolia, TX, the Baby Box offers parents in crisis a secure and compassionate option, ensuring every infant has a chance for a safe and loving future.

Across the United States, there are 375 Safe Haven Baby Box locations, including 13 in Texas. Since 2017, 64 infants have been safely and legally surrendered through Baby Boxes, while the National Safe Haven Crisis Line (1-866-99BABY1) has assisted with over 153 handoff surrenders. Each year, these numbers continue to grow as more communities adopt this life-saving initiative.

The Magnolia location was made possible thanks to the tireless efforts of local advocate Melanie Luttrell, whose vision and determination brought this resource to the community.

Safe Haven Baby Boxes was founded by Monica Kelsey, who has dedicated her mission to ending infant abandonment. In addition to installing Baby Boxes, the organization provides a confidential 24/7 National Hotline (1-866-99BABY1) to assist mothers in crisis. Currently, 23 states have Baby Boxes operating within their communities.

Kelsey shared,

“We have seen time and time again that preparation can save and change lives. We never know when or where we will be needed, so it is crucial to have options for mothers in crisis. I am grateful for local advocates who take our mission to their community.”

Infants surrendered through Baby Boxes are placed into the care of families registered as foster-to-adopt, with adoption coordinated by the local Department of Family Services.