Safe Haven for Newborns
The Ohio Safe Haven law, enacted in 2001, provides a safe haven for a mother in crisis to safely, securely, and anonymously surrender their newborn (under 30 days old) if they are unable to care for the baby.
The law offers a last resort for parents to relinquish their baby without fear of repercussion or prosecution. Anywhere in Ohio, a parent can hand the infant to:
- a medical worker in a hospital;
- a medical worker at a fire department or other emergency service organization; or
- a peace officer at a law enforcement agency
The parent is not required to provide any information, including his or her name. After the infant is surrendered, Summit County Children Services will be notified, and the child will be taken to a hospital to be examined. After the examination, Children Services will arrange for temporary emergency care and foster care placement.
The Hudson Fire, EMS, and Police serve as safe havens under Ohio's Safe Haven Law.
Hudson locations where an infant can be surrendered under this Ohio law are:
Hudson Fire/EMS
40 S. Oviatt Street
Hudson, OH 44236
Hudson Police
36 S. Oviatt Street
Hudson, OH 44236
If you have any additional questions regarding the Safe Haven for Newborns Program or would like more information, please contact the resources listed below.
Ohio Department of Job & Family Services Safe Havens