ATHENS — With the goal of increasing protection and security for newborns, Athens Limestone Hospital has installed a Safe Haven Baby Box.

The installation makes the hospital the seventh facility in the state to offer the resource. The first was installed in January at Madison Fire Station No. 1. A ribbon-cutting for the Athens-Limestone baby box is scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday.

The apparatus is placed in an exterior wall of the hospital. Once a baby is placed inside, the exterior door locks automatically, and hospital staff can access the infant through an interior door.

Additionally, the system allows immediate medical attention for the child if necessary while ensuring a safe environment for mothers who may be unable to care for their newborn.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Safe Haven Baby Box at ALH. This significant advancement reflects our dedication to enhancing the safety and well-being of newborns while providing a compassionate and secure option for mothers facing challenging circumstances,” said Kourtney Ennis, director of the Emergency Department. “By offering a safe, anonymous way to surrender their babies, we aim to prevent abandonment and ensure that every child has the chance for a strong and loving start.

“This initiative aligns with our mission, ‘Be the Difference’ and vision, ‘Excellence Always’ to provide supportive, excellent care to families in crisis and reinforces our commitment to community prosperity.”

Safe Haven Baby Boxes, founded in 2015, works to prevent newborn abandonment by increasing awareness of the Safe Haven Law. Mothers in crisis can receive confidential counseling and support by calling the organization’s 24-hour hotline.

The organization has referred more than 500 women to crisis pregnancy centers, assisted with nine adoptions, and facilitated over 150 Safe Haven surrenders, including 50 through baby boxes.