For the third time in just 18 months, a newborn has been safely surrendered at the Safe Haven Baby Box at the Hobbs Fire Department. The box, which provides a lifeline to parents in crisis, offers a second chance at life for the child.
Installed in 2023, the temperature-controlled baby box is designed for the anonymous surrender of infants up to 90 days old. When the door is closed, it locks automatically, sending an alert to first responders, who immediately take action. This system offers a safe and anonymous option for parents unable to care for their child or in urgent situations.
In the most recent case, officials confirmed that the infant was safely transported to a hospital and placed under the care of the New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department.
Hobbs Fire Chief Mark Doporto emphasized the importance of the baby box as a critical alternative to more dangerous outcomes. “As a father and first responder, this is the alternative we want to see,” Doporto said. “We much rather see a child surrendered through a baby box than any other way. This is the safest and most anonymous method.”
New Mexico’s Safe Haven Law protects parents who legally surrender their infant at designated sites, such as fire or police stations, from facing prosecution for abandonment or neglect.
Carri Downing, EMS superintendent in Hobbs, pointed out that many people remain unaware of the existence of safe surrender laws. “Fire and police departments have always been drop-off points,” she said. “However, before the baby box was installed here in Hobbs, not many people knew about this option.”
Safe Haven Baby Boxes are becoming more common across the U.S., with the first one installed in Texas at a fire station in Abilene. These secure, monitored devices aim to reduce infant abandonment and provide a discreet, safe option for families in need.
Hobbs resident Paula Manis expressed support for the baby box, highlighting its potential to help both parents and adoptive families. “If you have to give your baby away, please do, because it will go to a loving home with two parents who want a child,” Manis said. “I don’t think there’s any difference between abandoning a baby in a trash can or choosing adoption through the baby box. This is a responsible choice.”
As more communities install these boxes, advocates hope that awareness will increase, and more lives will be saved.
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