What Is the Indiana Safe Haven Law? | The Hope Clinic | Berne, IN

October 27, 2023

The Indiana Safe Haven Law allows a mother or father to give up their baby anonymously without being worried about facing arrest or persecution. This is a safe alternative to abandonment, which is illegal and puts a baby’s life in danger.

Read on to learn more about Indiana’s Safe Haven Law. Or, if you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and wondering what to do next, or if you currently have a baby and are feeling overwhelmed, contact The Hope Clinic to be connected to one of our caring team members. We’re here to offer support and information that can help you make an empowered decision about how to move forward.

How Does the Indiana Safe Haven Law Work?

Under the Indiana Safe Haven Law, a mother or father can surrender their baby to an emergency medical professional without leaving any identifying information, as long as the baby doesn’t show any signs of intentional abuse. However, any information regarding the baby’s date of birth, race, or medical history would be greatly appreciated.

The surrendered baby will be examined by a medical provider and given treatment (if needed). Then, the Department of Child Services will place the baby in the custody of Child Protective Services until a caregiver can be obtained.

Where Are Surrender Locations?

Babies can be surrendered to any hospital, fire department, or other emergency station in Indiana. However, to maintain anonymity, safe haven baby boxes were created. These secure, temperature-controlled devices look like boxes attached to the sides of fire stations. When a baby is placed inside, a silent alarm will alert the emergency professionals, and the baby will remain safe and protected until first responders arrive.

Safe haven baby boxes are located in Adams County at the Berne Public Safety Building and the Decatur Fire Station, but you can find more locations by searching here.

Next Steps

If you currently have a baby but are feeling overwhelmed, or if you’re still pregnant but don’t know what to do, help is available. At The Hope Clinic, we’re here for you. We offer free-of-charge, confidential resources and support that can help you feel encouraged. You’re not alone in this. Contact us today to find help.

When I found out I was pregnant with my first child, I was single, scared, and alone. I wondered how I would take care of my child. Would I be a good mom? When I went to the Hope Clinic, I felt hope for the first time. The staff members were very nice. They even prayed with me when I found out I was pregnant. I no longer felt alone. I was able to earn Baby Bucks and buy items for my baby. I would recommend the Hope Clinic to any woman who is pregnant or is questioning how she will take care of her child.

Testimonial…I was pregnant with my first child

When I first came to the Hope Clinic, I was 19 and had no idea how I was going to be able to take care of a baby. The staff and volunteers were professional, nice, and understanding. They were not judgmental. Their support and programs helped prepare me to be a mom. The Hope Clinic is a great place, and I am thankful for all that they have done for me.

Testimonial…I am thankful for all that they have done for me.

The ladies are always very caring and informative. If I was to get pregnant again, I would definitely come back as I did with my first one. My test and positive result helped me to get medical coverage to see a doctor and obtain health insurance.

Testimonial…always very caring and informative

I was pregnant at a young age and trying to graduate from high school when I came to the Hope Clinic. The ladies treated me very well and made me feel at home. In fact, sometimes I really do feel more at home at the Hope Clinic than in my own home! I am grateful for all the programs and the help I received. The Hope Clinic is an extremely helpful place!

Testimonial…I was pregnant at a young age

The staff is great. The staff is always friendly and helpful. I like everything especially the Baby Bucks program. It really helps! The Hope Clinic has helped me so much over the last 4 years. I would refer all my friends. They are helpful people who are genuine and want to help. Also being able to get what we needed for our son. I also liked seeing the ultrasound of my daughter and talking to Mary Carol and everyone else. They are very nice and understanding.

Testimonial…The staff is great

The first thing I noticed when walking into The Hope Clinic was how much nicer and more welcoming it felt than Planned Parenthood, which is where I got my pregnancy test for my first son.

Testimonial…The first thing I noticed

When times were rough, The Hope Clinic helped me to overcome my weakness. They prayed with me when times were both bad and good. This gave me the courage to become stronger.

Testimonial…When times were rough

If I could tell people about The Hope Clinic, I would tell them that anything you need they are there for you. I have learned so much and I would definitely recommend them to you! When I first came in, I was at the bottom. I am now getting married in a few weeks and enjoying my life.

Testimonial…If I could tell people about The Hope Clinic

I was 16 years old, pregnant, and trying to figure out how to support a baby on little to no income. When I walked through the doors of The Hope Clinic, I didn’t feel judged. The place really did give me hope. The staff and volunteers were all so kind. They asked about my family every time I came in and actually cared about us.

Testimonial…I was 16 years old