SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Sevier County EMS is preparing to unveil a new Safe Haven Baby Box, providing an anonymous and secure option for mothers who are unable to care for a newborn.
A blessing and dedication ceremony for the new baby box is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, August 18, at 718 Middle Creek Road in Sevierville.
Once operational, the installation will become the 33rd Safe Haven Baby Box in Tennessee, further expanding access to safe infant surrender locations across the state.
Safe Haven Baby Boxes are designed to allow a parent to legally and anonymously surrender an infant. The boxes are equipped with safety features that immediately alert emergency personnel when a baby is placed inside, ensuring the child receives prompt care.
Officials say the program provides an alternative for mothers facing crisis situations while helping prevent unsafe abandonments.
Monica Kelsey, founder of Safe Haven Baby Boxes, said the organization remains committed to supporting both mothers and infants through the process.
“We are the only organization providing complete anonymity and we want these mothers to know we are there for them and their infant before and following a surrender,” Kelsey said.
Public Invited to Ceremony
Community members are invited to attend the blessing event and learn more about how the program works.
Organizers say the ceremony will highlight the importance of Safe Haven laws and the resources available to parents facing difficult decisions.
Expanding Safety Resources
Supporters of the program say Baby Boxes provide another layer of protection for vulnerable infants while ensuring parents have access to a legal, confidential surrender option.
The addition in Sevier County continues a growing trend across Tennessee, where communities have increasingly adopted the technology as part of broader infant safety efforts.
Officials hope the new installation will provide reassurance to families in crisis and help save lives by offering a safe alternative when parents feel they have nowhere else to turn.
