Baby Safe Havens in Vermont

babyVermont’s Baby Safe Haven Law offers you safe places you can give up your baby—anonymously and legally.


Who can bring a baby to a Safe Haven?

You (or someone acting on your behalf) can bring your baby, up to 30 days old, to any Safe Haven in Vermont — without fear of being arrested or charged.

To be covered by the law, you must hand the baby to a volunteer or employee at the Safe Haven. YOU CANNOT LEAVE THE BABY ALONE. 


What are Safe Havens in Vermont?

A Safe Haven is any:

  • Fire or police station;
  • Health care facility;
  • Place of worship;
  • Adoption agency licensed in Vermont; or
  • Place an emergency responder, contacted through 911, agrees to meet you to receive your baby.

Safe Havens should read the Guidelines for Safe Havens.


What will happen to me?

Depending on where you bring your baby, you may be offered medical help, counseling, or other support. You may accept or decline. Once you've safely turned over your baby, you are free to leave.


Where can I learn more?

  • Click here to read the Baby Safe Haven Brochure
  • Click here to watch the  Public Service Announcement

What if I am not sure what to do and I want help?

Please call the Vermont Department of Health at 1-800-649-4357 during normal business hours.  They can refer you to a public health nurse in your area who can:

  • Help you find pre-natal care and transportation to pre-natal appointments;
  • Give you advice about your options;
  • Help you find financial assistance and other support if you choose to keep your baby; and
  • Refer you to an adoption agency who can help you make an adoption plan for your baby.

If this is an emergency, call 911.  Please Don't Abandon Your Baby. There Is A Better Way.

Family Services Division (FSD)

Interim Deputy Commissioner Karen Shea
DCF - Family Services Division
280 State Drive
Waterbury, VT - 05671-1030
Phone:(802) 241-2131

http://dcf.vermont.gov/fsd