New Safe Haven Baby Box to Be Dedicated in Florence, KY on July 31
07/29/2025
Saving lives just got a little easier in Florence, Kentucky. A new Safe Haven Baby Box will be officially dedicated and blessed on Thursday, July 31 at 1:00 p.m., marking a significant milestone in the city's commitment to providing safe, anonymous options for parents in crisis.
Located at 8101 Dream Street, this new baby box offers a secure and compassionate alternative for the legal surrender of infants, helping to ensure every child has a chance for a safe and loving future.
Florence joins a growing national network of 370 Safe Haven Baby Box locations, including 56 in Kentucky. The project was made possible through the collaboration and dedication of the City of Florence Administration and the Florence Fire/EMS District, who recognized the need for such a life-saving resource in the community.
Founded by Monica Kelsey, Safe Haven Baby Boxes was created with the mission to end infant abandonment. In addition to installing baby boxes, the organization operates a 24/7 confidential National Hotline (1-866-99BABY1), providing support and resources to parents in crisis. 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.”
Since 2017, 63 infants have been safely and legally surrendered using Safe Haven Baby Boxes, with an additional 153 handoff surrenders facilitated through the national hotline. Each surrendered infant is placed with a registered foster-to-adopt family through coordination with local departments of family services.
The City of Florence is proud to be part of a growing movement that is not only saving lives, but also offering hope, compassion, and second chances, one baby at a time.