Manitowoc, Wis. – On Wednesday, the Manitowoc Fire Rescue Department celebrated the installation of a new Safe Haven Baby Box at Station #3, located at 3820 Dewey Street. The ceremony, which included a brief blessing, highlighted the community’s commitment to protecting the most vulnerable among us.
What a Safe Haven Baby Box Is
Safe Haven Baby Boxes are temperature‑controlled, lockable containers mounted on the exterior walls of fire stations or hospitals. They operate 24/7, allowing a parent in crisis to surrender a newborn anonymously and safely. When an infant is placed inside, the outer door automatically locks and a silent alarm notifies fire‑rescue personnel. An interior door then opens, enabling trained officials to retrieve the baby quickly for medical attention and care.
Milestone for Wisconsin
This box is the 487th Safe Haven location across the United States and the 10th in Wisconsin. In Northeast Wisconsin, the state now has three such boxes: Manitowoc, Sturgeon Bay, and Howard. Wisconsin is among at least 14 states that have enacted anonymous, 24‑hour drop‑off laws for newborns, permitting surrender of infants up to 30 days old.
Why It Matters to Families
For parents facing overwhelming circumstances, the Safe Haven program offers a humane alternative to abandonment. It protects the child’s health and life while respecting the parent’s need for privacy. The program aligns with the community’s core values of family protection, compassion, and individual liberty.
Last year, a newborn was safely surrendered in a similar box in Racine, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness throughout the state. The Manitowoc box adds another layer of safety for families in the region.
How to Get Help
Parents in crisis who need guidance or support can call or text the statewide hotline at 1‑866‑99BABY1. The hotline provides confidential assistance, counseling, and information about resources for families.
The addition of the Manitowoc Safe Haven Baby Box underscores the city’s dedication to safeguarding children and supporting families in their most difficult moments. It stands as a tangible expression of community care, faith‑based compassion, and the belief that every child deserves a chance at a safe, healthy start.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
