Family Forum / Parenting / Adoption / November 2006

CALIFORNIA

http://cbs2.com/topstories/local_story_333205654.html

'Safe Surrender' Receives 11th Baby This Year

Infant Was Dropped Off On Thanksgiving & Has Already Been Placed With A
Family

47 Infants Have Been Saved Since Program's 2002 Debut

Nov 29, 2006 -- (CBS) LOS ANGELES A newborn girl dropped off at a Long
Beach hospital on Thanksgiving was the 11th baby to be turned over to
Los Angeles County authorities this year under the Safe Surrender
program, officials reported Wednesday.

The infant was surrendered at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and
appeared to be in good health.

She was taken into protective custody and has already been placed with
a family approved for adoption by the Department of Children and Family
Services.

"I could not be more thrilled with this news," Supervisor Don Knabe
said. "This little girl has a healthy life ahead of her, and she is
truly a testament to the success and importance of the Safe Surrender
Program."

The Los Angeles County Safe Surrender Program, initiated by Knabe in
2002, allows a parent or someone designated by a parent to surrender a
healthy baby within 72 hours of birth to any county hospital or fire
station without facing repercussions.

Since the program began, 47 infants have been surrendered to county
authorities.

For more information on the program, call (877) 222-9723, or dial the
county's 24-hour hotline at 211.