McKenzie Sets Date for Safe Haven Baby Box Unveiling

McKENZIE — The City of McKenzie's first Safe Haven Baby Box, located at the McKenzie Fire Department, is set to be unveiled and blessed on Thursday, August 6 at 10 a.m. Thursday's unveiling ceremony marks the 460th Safe Haven Baby Box in the nation and the 32nd in Tennessee, expanding access to safe, anonymous surrender options for mothers in crisis.

In a press release, Safe Haven Baby Boxes thanked the citizens of McKenzie and surrounding areas, First Baptist Church, Cumberland Presbyterian, Blooming Grove Methodist Church, the Knights of Columbus Gorman-Brown Council #7086, Midway Materials, Overflow Church and Integrity Construction for their work, heart and dedication into bringing a Baby Box to the community. 

"Your commitment to protecting the most vulnerable and ensuring families have safe options has made a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for your efforts in making this life‑saving resource a reality," the nonprofit shared.

In the state of Tennessee, mothers can legally surrender their babies up until 45 days of age. Surrenders can take place at hospitals, fire stations/EMS providers, police stations or baby boxes.

Safe Haven Baby Boxes founder, Monica Kelsey, said, “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.”

The public is encouraged to attend this community event and learn more about how Safe Haven Baby Boxes help protect vulnerable infants and support parents who choose a safe, legal alternative in moments of crisis.