Watertown, WI, July 24, 2025 - Saving lives just got a little easier in Watertown, WI, as our newest baby box will be blessed on July 24th at 2:30 PM CST. The newest addition represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide a safe and anonymous alternative to surrendering an infant. Located at 621 Bernard St., Watertown, WI, our new location will offer a secure and compassionate option for parents in crisis and help ensure every infant has a chance for a safe and loving future. Across the country, there are 359 Safe Haven Baby Box locations, with 7 in the state.
The Safe Haven Baby Box in Watertown, WI would not have been possible without the local advocates. Emily McFarland had the vision for the project, the Strehlow family for their donation towards the bassinet, and City of Watertown council members for approving the installation and program who all worked tirelessly to bring this resource to their community. Safe Haven Baby Boxes was founded by Monica Kelsey on a mission to end infant abandonment. In addition to baby boxes, the organization provides a confidential National Hotline, 1-866-99BABY1. Twenty-four states have a Baby Box presence within their state. Kelsey shared, “We have seen time and time again that preparation can save and change lives. We never know when or where we will be needed, so it is crucial to have options for mothers in crisis. I am grateful for local advocates who take our mission to their community.” Since 2017, 61 infants have been safely and legally surrendered in a Baby Box. The National Safe Haven Crisis line has assisted with over 153 handoff surrenders. Each year, the numbers increase with more baby boxes available across the country. Surrendered infants are adopted by families who have registered as foster-to-adopt. The Local Department of Family Services coordinates the adoption process.
For more information, please contact Monica at monicakelsey@safehavenbabyboxes.com
PROGRAM
Watertown Fire Department adds an Anonymous Surrender Option
WHAT: Blessing of the Watertown Fire Department Safe Haven Baby Box
WHERE: 621 Bernard St., Watertown, WI, 53094
WHEN: Thursday, July 24th, 2:30 PM CST
SPEAKERS INCLUDED:
● Monica Kelsey, Safe Haven Baby Boxes Founder
● Emily McFarland, Former Mayor
● Robert Stocks, Current Mayor
● Tanya Reynen, Fire Chief
BLESSING AND REMARKS:
● Cory Schultz, Department Member
FINAL REMARKS:
● Monica Kelsey, Safe Haven Baby Boxes (unlock box)