The Save Abandoned Babies Foundation disappointed to learn of an abandoned baby in Glenview

After learning about a baby abandoned in Glenview Jan. 11, the Save Abandoned Babies Foundation wants to express their sadness and remind everyone that an unharmed baby up to 30 days old can be relinquished, no questions asked, to staff at any hospital, police station, or fire station.

"The Safe Haven Law was passed to prevent a tragedy like what has happened here," said Dawn Geras, founder and president of the Save Abandoned Babies Foundation. "We are devastated that a baby has been abandoned instead of being adopted and loved."

The Safe Haven Law was passed in 2001 after a child was found abandoned in a dumpster.

The law offers a safe and legal alternative to infant abandonment which tragically leads to the death of the baby almost 50% of the time. Under the Act, an unharmed newborn, 30 days old or younger, may legally be surrendered to personnel at any hospital, emergency medical care facility, or staffed firehouse or police station. No questions need to be answered and the parent will not face prosecution. Since the law's inception over 142 babies have been handed over safely to official personnel.

The Save Abandoned Babies Foundation works tirelessly to promote awareness of the Safe Haven Law through advertising, media, outreach, and education. They have worked with the state to produce a curriculum for schools to teach the Safe Haven Law, which is mandated for grades 6-12 in the state of Illinois. To volunteer, donate, or for more information go to www.SaveAbandonedBabies.org.