Monday, April 14, 2014

Utah County Discovery a Reminder: There is Help and Hope for Endangered Newborns


(Salt Lake City, UT) – Staff of the Utah Department of Health Newborn Safe Haven program are reminding women that their babies are wanted, even if their mothers can’t care for them.

Safe Haven was launched in 2001 to allow mothers to anonymously drop off their babies at any Utah hospital, no questions asked, and without fear of criminal punishment.

“It’s a sad day for all of us who have worked to educate our community about Safe Haven” said program coordinator Julia Robertson. “But there is hope for the mothers and their babies, so we encourage anyone struggling with a decision to seek help.”

The Safe Haven hotline number is 866-458-0058 and is available night and day.  More information is available at www.utahsafehaven.org, including details on the law, answers to frequently asked questions, and contact information for hospitals that are open 24/7.

"Child abuse, neglect, and homicide can be prevented,” said Heidi Valdez, Child Abuse Prevention Program Administrator, Utah Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS). “Crisis and respite nurseries, parenting classes, family counseling, and in-home services, are available statewide for all Utahns."

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The mission of the Utah Department of Health is to protect the public's health through preventing avoidable illness, injury, disability and premature death, assuring access to affordable, quality health care, and promoting healthy lifestyles.