FAQs

Will I get in trouble?

No. If you choose to leave your infant in the care of a health care professional, police officer, EMT or firefighter, you will not be in any trouble as long as it is within 72 hours of the infant’s birth and the infant appears unharmed.

If I deliver at the hospital, how do I remain anonymous?

Once you make the decision to choose Safe Haven for your baby, all identifying information is removed from the baby’s medical record. When the infant is reported to the local child welfare agency, your name is withheld and your identity is protected.

What happens to my baby?

All Safe Haven babies are kept safe in a hospital setting until medically able to go home to an approved pre-adoptive home. Your local child welfare agency will monitor their care until an adoption is final.

Do I have to give any information?

You will be asked if you are willing to provide basic health information that will help us provide the best possible care for your baby. This is not required.

Do I have to give my baby to someone or can I just leave the baby at the door?

Please make sure that you hand your baby over to someone. Leaving your baby unattended can be dangerous and will not provide you with the anonymity and protection the Safe Haven Law provides you. The law does require you hand your baby to someone who can keep the baby safe.

What if I change my mind?

If you change your mind after leaving your infant, you can call The Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services Maternal and Child Hotline for information about your baby.

You will be required to go through your local child welfare system to obtain custody of your infant.

WDHFS Maternal and Child Hotline phone:
1-800-722-2295