Safe Haven

(1) A parent(s) is permitted to voluntarily place their newborn child under seven days old with a hospital, police department or manned fire department, hereinafter "Safe Haven Facility", pursuant to M.G.L. c. 119, § 39½. 4.09: continued (2) When a parent leaves a child at a Safe Haven Facility, the Safe Haven Facility is required to immediately notify the Department, which shall immediately arrange for placement of the child under M.G.L. c. 119, § 23(a)(5). (3) If the parent's(s') identity is known, the Department may explore with the parent entering into a Voluntary Placement Agreement or executing a Voluntary Surrender Consent Form. (4) If the parent(s) did not identify themselves to the Safe Haven Facility, or is unwilling to sign a Voluntary Placement Agreement or a Voluntary Surrender Consent Form, the Department shall file a court proceeding for custody of the child immediately, but no later than the next court day following receipt of notice from the Safe Haven Facility.