Baby Boxes vs Adoption in Wisconsin: Which is the Right Choice for You and Your Baby?

Unplanned childbirth can be overwhelming. If you’re searching for a safe haven baby box in Wisconsin, it means you're trying to make the most selfless and loving decision possible for your baby’s future.

But before you make a final choice, you should know: there’s another safe, compassionate path that gives you more support, more control, and the same level of privacy — even if you’ve already given birth.

With adoption, you can stay anonymous if you choose, receive 24/7 guidance from a licensed professional, and even complete a same-day adoption placement in a way that ensures your baby is immediately cared for by a waiting, pre-screened family.

You're not alone — and you deserve to make this decision with confidence, peace of mind, and all the support you need.

Are There Safe Haven Baby Boxes in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin has several Safe Haven Baby Boxes available. Here are the current locations:

• Racine: 3829 Washington Ave, Racine, WI 53405
• Reedsburg: 230 Railroad St, Reedsburg, WI 53959
• Elkhorn: 13 S Broad St, Elkhorn, WI 53121
• Howard (Green Bay): 2456 Glendale Ave, Green Bay, WI 54313

We know this is a difficult time for you. You deserve to know all your options. Contact us, or keep reading for more information. If you need immediate assistance, reach out to our adoption specialists for confidential guidance at 1-800-ADOPTION.

Why Adoption Might Be a Better Option for You

While Safe Haven Baby Boxes provide a safe alternative to abandonment, adoption through a licensed agency offers additional benefits, including:

• Financial Assistance: Help with rent, groceries, and medical bills.
• Counseling & Support: Professional guidance throughout your journey.
• Choosing the Adoptive Family: Select from pre-screened families who are ready to provide a loving home.
• Open & Semi-Open Adoption Options: Stay connected with your child if desired.
• Confidentiality & Control: You decide how much information is shared and what your adoption plan looks like.

With an agency, you are in control of your child’s future. Our expert staff can help you make a plan, find a family, and set up financial resources for yourself. You can control when each step happens, who will adopt your child, and whether or not you want to stay in touch.

Many safe, supportive, pre-screened families are eagerly waiting to provide a nurturing home. View Waiting Families.

Same-Day Adoptions: Immediate Support When You Need It

If you’re at the hospital or have already given birth, it’s not too late to choose adoption. Many birth mothers make this decision in the hours or days after delivery. All of our offices have experienced, understanding staff who can help you with a same-day adoption. Here are our Wisconsin locations:

• Milwaukee Office: 9000 W Chester St # 100, Milwaukee, WI 53214
• Green Bay Office: 444 Reid St, De Pere, WI 54115
• Eau Claire Office: 3402 Oakwood Mall Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54701

Our specialists are available 24/7 to guide you through the adoption process with the same compassionate care, no matter when you decide. Learn More About Same-Day Adoptions.

What is the Baby Box Program?

A Safe Haven Baby Box is a secure, temperature-controlled compartment where a birth mother can anonymously surrender her newborn under Wisconsin’s Safe Haven laws. These boxes are typically located at fire stations or hospitals, allowing for immediate medical attention and a safe transition into care.

Baby boxes are monitored 24/7, ensuring that once a baby is placed inside, emergency responders are alerted immediately. The anonymity of this option provides privacy for birth mothers who may feel they have no other choice.

Who is Eligible for a Baby Box?

Under Wisconsin’s Safe Haven law, a parent or legal guardian may surrender a newborn up to 72 hours old at an approved location, including hospitals, fire stations, and police stations. Wisconsin law protects parents who legally surrender their newborns from prosecution.

The baby must be unharmed. Learn more about Wisconsin’s Safe Haven laws here.

While baby boxes allow for anonymity, surrendering a child in person at an approved Safe Haven location ensures immediate medical care and allows for the possibility of open adoption options.

The Drawbacks of Baby Boxes

While baby boxes offer a safe option, they come with drawbacks:

• No ability to choose your baby’s adoptive family.
• No option for open or semi-open adoption, meaning no future contact.
• No financial assistance or counseling services for birth mothers.

For many women, working with an adoption agency offers a more supportive and empowering alternative.

Additional Support for Birth Mothers

No matter your choice, support is available. We offer:

• 24/7 counseling services
• Help applying for financial assistance for rent, groceries, and maternity expenses
• Peer support groups for birth mothers
• Legal and medical guidance at no cost

Learn More About Financial Assistance.

Contact Us for Free, Confidential Support

If you are considering surrendering your baby to a Safe Haven Baby Box or exploring adoption, we’re here to help. You deserve support, understanding, and the ability to make the best decision for you and your baby. Contact us anytime at 1-800-ADOPTION. You can find more information here.

 

 

Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.