Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division

Under Oregon's "A Safe Place for Newborns" law, a birth parent (either mother or father) is permitted to leave a newborn at an authorized location. This legislation was established to allow distressed parents to relinquish their babies in a safe, legal, and confidential manner. Authorized locations include hospitals, doctors' offices, birthing clinics, police stations, sheriff's offices, or fire departments. The infant must be handed to a staff member at the facility.

Intake Procedure: While no identifying questions will be posed, it is beneficial if the parent opts to share basic health information. The child will receive care and medical attention if necessary. The Oregon Department of Human Services Child Welfare will assume protective custody as soon as the infant is left at the facility.

Fees: There are no associated fees.