Councilmember Beasley and Chief Wells unveil Lexington's Safe Haven Baby Box initiative

The Lexington Public Arts Commission meeting held on May 6, 2025, focused on the introduction and operational details of the newly installed Safe Haven Baby Box at a local fire station. Councilmember Amy Beasley, representing the Eighth District, led the discussion alongside Chief Wells from the fire department.

The Safe Haven Baby Box is a community initiative designed to provide a safe and anonymous option for parents to surrender newborns. Chief Wells explained that the box was funded through local donations, with additional support from the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG) for installation and ongoing monitoring costs. The box features an alarm system that alerts fire crews when it is opened, ensuring that help can be dispatched quickly to care for any infant placed inside.

The design of the Baby Box includes climate control to maintain a safe environment for the newborn, regardless of external weather conditions. Importantly, there are no surveillance cameras monitoring the box, adhering to the requirements set by the Safe Haven organization to ensure the anonymity of the surrendering parent.

The cost of the Baby Box is approximately $14,000, with ongoing expenses related to monitoring and climate control. Chief Wells noted that while the current box has not yet been used, there have been instances of infants being surrendered in Kentucky, highlighting the need for such facilities.

Discussion also touched on the possibility of installing additional Baby Boxes at other fire stations. Chief Wells indicated that while there are specific requirements for installation, interested organizations could raise funds and petition for new boxes, with the fire department willing to assist in the process.

The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on the initiative, emphasizing its role in providing a safe alternative for parents in crisis. The Safe Haven Baby Box represents a significant step in community support for vulnerable families, aiming to prevent unsafe abandonments.