On a warm and balmy afternoon earlier this week, CWA of Louisiana had the humbling and exciting opportunity to witness the dedication of the first Safe Haven Baby Box at the District 1 fire station in Slidell, Louisiana.
In 2000, Louisiana enacted the Safe Haven Law, amending the Children’s Code to provide for the Safe Haven relinquishment of newborns.
That code was then amended several times, and most recently in 2021. The entire Safe Haven Law, contained in the Louisiana Children’s Code, provides a safe, legal, last resort alternative to abandonment.
More information can be found on the Department of Children and Family Services website.
On April 14, 2024, the entire Louisiana House Floor unanimously passed HB891, authored by Rep. Emily Chenevert (R – District 66) and co-authored by 51 additional representatives.
Monica Kelsey and me (left), Rep. Emily Chenevert (top right), and CWA of Louisiana delegation (bottom right)
This legislation positioned Louisiana to move forward in establishing the Safe Haven Baby Box program, founded by Monica Kelsey, CEO.
Fast forward to Wednesday, April 30, 2025, we now have a fully operational Safe Haven Baby Box, funded with private donations from the community at no expense to the state taxpayers.
Watch the news coverage of this incredible day here.
What a day of celebration for Louisiana and the city of Slidell! An additional Safe Haven Baby Box was dedicated later in the nearby city of Covington, Louisiana.
“For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes. He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing.” -Deuteronomy 10:17-18
Please Take Action: Take a minute to email Rep. Emily Chenevert to let her know how much you appreciate all that she has done to make the Safe Haven Baby Box project happen. Be sure to let her know that you are associated with Concerned Women for America of Louisiana.
Pray with CWA of Louisiana: “Bless this with Your hand of protection, over every child that may be placed here. We trust that Your love will surround them as they begin their journey in life. May this box be a symbol of hope and compassion, providing a safe haven for those in need, and may it reflect Your unending love for all children. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”