Florida installs new 'Baby Box' at Marion County fire station
The Brief
Marion County Fire Rescue's new EMS Central fire station is now the home of a Safe Haven Baby Box, providing parents with an anonymous option for safely surrendering their newborns.
The fire department says it plans to install the baby boxes at two of its other local stations.
OCALA, Fla. - A Safe Haven Baby Box has been installed at a fire station in Marion County.
A Safe Haven Baby Box provides parents with an anonymous option for safely surrendering their newborns at local fire stations.
When a baby is placed inside the box, advanced technology immediately alerts first responders, who then provide prompt care and support for the child.
Monday marked Marion County Fire Rescue's dedication of its first baby box at EMS Central, located at 1400 SW 6th Ave in Ocala.
What they're saying"This Safe Haven Baby Box symbolizes hope, compassion, and safety. Its presence in our community reflects our mission to serve and protect every life in Marion County. We are honored to provide this critical resource to those in need." Marion County Fire Chief James Banta
Dig deeper
Monica Kelsey, the CEO of Safe Haven Baby Box, created the baby boxes to prevent illegal abandonment of newborns, with the organization's primary goal of raising awareness of the Safe Haven Law "through a variety of educational initiatives, public speaking engagements, and direct care provided to parents in crisis," according to the Safe Haven Baby Box's website.
RELATED STORY: Newborn surrendered at Florida fire station 'Baby Box'
It's a passion near to her heart, as she was abandoned at a small hospital just hours after her teen mother – who had been "brutally attacked, raped and left for dead on the side of the road" – gave birth.
By the numbers
The new baby box marks the 6th location in Florida. Marion County Fire Rescue said it plans to install more baby boxes at its Citra Fire Station #20 and its newly remodeled Golden Ocala Station #20.
There are over 100 baby boxes located across the United States. To find a location near you, click here.
The Source
This story was written based on information shared by Marion County Fire Rescue and the Safe Haven Baby Box's website.
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