Safe places that you can give up your baby—anonymously and legally.
Read the Baby Safe Haven Brochure
What This Means
You, or someone acting for you, can bring your baby to a Safe Haven in Vermont — without fear of being arrested or charged.
To be covered by the law:
- The baby must be no more than 30 days old,
- The baby must not have been abused or neglected, and
- You must physically hand the baby to a volunteer or employee at the Safe Haven.
Safe Havens In Vermont
A safe haven is any:
- Fire or police station
- Health care facility
- Place of worship
- Adoption agency licensed in Vermont
- Place where an emergency responder, contacted through 911, agrees to meet you to receive your baby
What Will Happen
Depending on where you bring your baby, you may be offered medical help, counseling, or other support. You may accept or decline that help. Once you safely turn over your baby, you are free to leave.
What Will Happen To Your Baby
Someone at the Safe Haven will:
- Receive your baby
- Make sure they get any needed medical care
- Contact us
What Happens Next
DCF will:
- Place the baby in a pre-adoptive home
- Start the legal procedure required to terminate parental rights
- Proceed with the baby’s adoption
If You Change Your Mind
If you decide that you want to care for your baby, call 1-800-241-0891. You will be connected with staff with the Department for Children and Families who will explain your options and assist you through the process. You must act quickly. Without knowing your identity the Court process will move quickly. Once your child has been adopted you may not be able to have any contact with them until they are an adult.
Learn More
- Watch the Public Service Announcement
- Read the Vermont Statute
- Read these Guidelines For Safe Havens
Please don't abandon your baby. There is a better way.
