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- Texas is grappling with a significant rise in abandoned newborns, with a 500% increase since 2022.
- Despite the Baby Moses law allowing safe surrender, many babies are still found in dangerous locations like dumpsters and highways.
- Advocates are calling for more resources and awareness about safe surrender options.
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Quick Brief
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Essential Context
The number of abandoned newborns in Texas has alarmingly increased, highlighting a critical need for better resources and awareness about safe surrender laws.
Core Players
- Leigha Curry – Advocate who was herself abandoned as a baby, pushing for Safe Haven Baby Boxes.
- Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) – Agency tracking and responding to newborn abandonments.
- Eagle’s Flight Advocacy and Outreach – Organization promoting the use of Safe Haven boxes.
Key Numbers
- 500% – Increase in abandoned babies in Houston since 2022.
- 6 – Number of babies abandoned in Houston this fiscal year.
- 3 – Number of babies surrendered through safe haven this year.
- 2 – Number of Safe Haven Baby Boxes in all of Texas.
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The Catalyst
The recent surge in abandoned newborns, with incidents including babies found in dumpsters and along highways, has sparked widespread concern and calls for action.
“Just left to die. It’s tragic,” said Leigha Curry, who was abandoned herself and now advocates for better safe surrender options.
Inside Forces
The Texas Baby Moses law, enacted in 1999, allows parents to legally surrender their newborns at designated safe places like hospitals, fire stations, and emergency medical services stations. However, the law’s effectiveness is hindered by lack of awareness and resources.
“Sometimes you have teenage parents, that are having a baby that they are not prepared for, or didn’t want to tell anyone about,” said Daniel Lester, a supervisor at DFPS, highlighting the need for more education and promotion of the law.
Power Dynamics
Advocates like Leigha Curry and organizations such as Eagle’s Flight Advocacy and Outreach are pushing for the installation of Safe Haven Baby Boxes, which could provide anonymity and safety for parents who feel they cannot care for their babies.
“If you have a newborn up to 60 days, you can safely surrender that newborn at a fire station, and no charges will be filed against you,” emphasized Pamela Allen, CEO of Eagle’s Flight Advocacy and Outreach.
Outside Impact
The issue extends beyond Texas, reflecting broader societal and economic challenges. The lack of support for new parents and the stigma surrounding unwanted pregnancies contribute to the crisis.
This trend also raises questions about the effectiveness of current social and health care systems in supporting vulnerable populations.
Future Forces
Looking ahead, there is a pressing need for increased awareness and education about the Baby Moses law and other safe surrender options. Allocating funds for more signs and public service announcements could help reduce the number of abandonments.
“We don’t need to go back to finding dead babies in suitcases or dead babies in the trash,” said Summey, highlighting the urgency for change.
- Increased public awareness campaigns about the Baby Moses law.
- Installation of more Safe Haven Baby Boxes across Texas.
- Enhanced support services for new parents, including mental health and economic assistance.
Data Points
- 1999: Texas enacted the Baby Moses law to address newborn abandonments.
- 2022: Only one baby was abandoned in Houston.
- 2023: Four babies were abandoned in Houston, a 300% increase from 2022.
- 2024: Six babies have been abandoned in Houston this fiscal year, a 50% increase from 2023 and a 500% increase from 2022.
The escalating issue of newborn abandonments in Texas underscores the need for immediate action, better resources, and greater awareness about safe surrender laws to protect the lives of these vulnerable children.
