FOLEY – Foley is set to become the first city in Baldwin County to install a Safe Haven Baby Box, providing a secure, anonymous option for parents in crisis to safely surrender their newborns.

On Tuesday, April 8, the Foley City Council approved a lease agreement with Safe Haven Baby Boxes to install the life-saving device at the city’s main fire station. The initiative offers an alternative for parents who may feel they have no other option, allowing them to leave their infant in a climate-controlled, monitored box with no legal repercussions.

Foley Fire Chief Joey Darby said the department has been working on bringing the program to the city for nearly two years.

“It’s our hope that the box is never needed,” Darby said. “But in reality, we know the need exists. Madison had one of the state’s first baby boxes and received their first infant within 10 days. If this gives someone a safe, legal option and helps save a baby’s life—or even helps a parent in crisis—then it’s absolutely worth it.”

The legal foundation for the program was laid in 2023, when State Rep. Donna Givens of Loxley sponsored a bill allowing baby boxes to be installed at fire stations in Alabama. Since the bill’s passage, Foley’s fire department has worked diligently to move the project forward.

Deputy Chief Chad Brewer played a key role in advocating for Foley to be the first site in Baldwin County.

“It’s been a long, detailed process, but with the support of our team and community, we’re excited to see it moving forward,” Darby said.

The installation in Foley will follow strict guidelines and a thorough testing process to ensure the system is fully functional before becoming operational. The department is also benefiting from guidance provided by the Mobile Fire Department, which recently completed their own installation.

Local businesses, churches, and community groups have already stepped forward to support the effort, offering donations and services to help cover most—if not all—of the costs associated with the project.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support,” said Darby. “This is truly a community-driven initiative, and we’re proud to be leading the way in Baldwin County.”

For more information about Safe Haven Baby Boxes, visit www.shbb.org.