How to Safely Surrender a Newborn

Parents

How to Safely Surrender a Newborn

If you are here, you are looking for a safe, legal way to leave your newborn in trusted hands. This page will tell you how.

Colorado’s Safe Haven law allows a parent to surrender an unharmed newborn within 72 hours of birth at a hospital, emergency clinic (NOT an urgent care) or staffed fire station. The process is simple, legal, and confidential. You do not need an appointment. You do not need to explain.

You are not in trouble. You are not a bad person. This is a legal option that exists to protect you and your baby.

If you want to talk to someone before you go, the hotline is available 24/7. Call or text. It is free and confidential.

24/7 Safe Haven Hotline: +1-888-510-2229

If you are unsure where to go, call or text the hotline and someone will help you find the nearest location.

Bring your baby to a hospital, stand alone emergency clinic or staffed fire station in Colorado. These locations are open 24 hours a day. You do not need to call ahead.

Go to a Safe Haven Location

You do not have to explain your situation. You do not have to answer any questions. Staff may ask if you want to leave medical information that could help doctors care for the baby. That is completely up to you.

When you arrive, hand the unharmed newborn directly to a staff member. A nurse, firefighter, or other professional will take the baby and begin caring for them immediately.

Hand the Baby to a Staff Member

Once the baby has been received by staff, you are free to leave. You do not need to provide identification. You do not need to sign anything. You do not need to stay.

You May Leave

What Happens to the Baby

The baby will receive an immediate medical evaluation. From there, the Colorado Department of Human Services is contacted and the baby is placed with a pre-adoptive foster family. The baby will be cared for, and the adoption process begins.

Your identity is protected. The surrender is confidential.

If Your Baby Is Older Than 72 Hours

Colorado’s Safe Haven law applies to newborns 72 hours old or younger. If the baby is older than 72 hours, parent should contact CO4Kids for resources and options.
Please call. There is still help.

Can I Leave the Baby Somewhere at the Building?

No. The newborn must be handed directly to a staff member. This is how the law works and it is how we make sure the baby receives immediate care. Please go inside and find someone on duty.

Can I Talk to Someone Before I Decide?

Yes. The 24/7 hotline is staffed by trained professionals who can talk you through your options confidentially. You do not have to have anything decided before you call. You can also ask about free mental health support and temporary placement options that may be available to you.

What Happens if I Change My Mind?

Your baby may be returned to you once parenthood has been established and a judge determines it is safe for the baby to return to your care.

Medical Information Form

Staff may offer you a form to leave medical history that could help doctors care for your baby. The form is voluntary. It is not about identifying you. You do not have to fill it out, and you do not have to give your name.

If You Need Help Right Now

If you are overwhelmed or unsure what to do, please reach out. You do not have to figure this out alone.

Parents