The Starke County Commissioners heard an update on the new Safe Haven Baby Box installation during their meeting Monday.
Starke County EMS Director James Garner informed commissioners the baby box has been completely installed. He noted testing of the box is still being conducted and that training with the EMS department is scheduled for Monday, September 9. The training is expected to teach EMS Department staff on proper procedures in handling situations where the box is used.
A Safe Haven Baby Box legally permits a mother in crisis to safely, securely, and anonymously surrender a newborn if she is unable to care for the child. The mother can utilize the Safe Haven Baby Box at the Knox EMS Base, once operational, by opening a door on an exterior wall. It automatically locks upon placement of a newborn inside the Baby Box. An interior door allows a medical staff member to tend to the child upon an alarm notification following the surrender.
California Township Trustee and Co-Project Director Sheri Bartoli has been working with Founder and CEO of Bella Vita, Rebecca Bailey. Donations are being taken for ongoing fees associated with the operation of the baby box. Donations can be made online at www.shbb.org.
