The founding purpose and continuing mission of Safe Place for Newborns is to save the lives of newborns in danger of abandonment, and to help preserve the health and future of their mothers.

Safe Place for Newborns Crisis Line

Call Toll Free 24/7

1-877-440-2229

On April 3, 2001, Wisconsin became one of 14 states to adopt the Safehaven law. This law states a parent may confidentially leave his/her unharmed newborn with any EMT, firefighter, police officer or health care provider in the state within three days of birth without fear of prosecution. This law is in place to help insure that newborns that were not wanted or expected would not be discarded or harmed in any way.

As a health care system in Wisconsin, Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare’s hospitals participate in the legislated Safe Place for Newborns program. The program means that any baby up to 3 days old may be left with a hospital employee – no questions asked.

Effective January 1, 2010, Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – St. Joseph became the official headquarters of the statewide Safe Place for Newborns program. With

a mission and passion for helping children and families, Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – St Joseph is honored to assume this role and excited about the opportunities ahead.

The employee (clearly identified by a visible name badge) should be told that the baby is being left with Safe Place for Newborns. The new law requires that the baby be left with an employee, not in a public or private location within the hospital setting.