BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — The Bakersfield Police Department says a newborn baby was found dead near a dumpster in south Bakersfield on Monday morning.
The baby was found near a dumpster behind a local business complex at Panama Lane and H Street. Police pronounced the newborn dead at the scene. Investigators say the baby’s mother, described as transient, is currently hospitalized as authorities investigate.
Here in California, there is a law called Safe Surrender Baby, a lifesaving option that allows parents to legally, safely, and confidentially surrender a newborn at hospitals and fire stations.
Erin Rodgers is the executive director of the Bakersfield Pregnancy Center says, “the Safe Surrender law exists for that very reason. Where a woman can surrender her baby safely to any hospital or fire station within 72 hours of giving birth. She doesn’t have to give any information, no name, no shame, no blame. And she has 14 days to change her mind and seek to be reunited with her baby if that’s her choice.”
Local pregnancy centers, like the Bakersfield Pregnancy Center, provide critical support, counseling, and resources for people in crisis helping ensure both mother and child get the care they need.
“That’s why all of our services are free. We don’t need insurance, we don’t need anything from the client, we will never profit off her decision, and we can connect her to other services,” Rodgers said.
February also marks National Safe Surrender Baby Awareness Month, and the Bakersfield Pregnancy Center says education and advocacy are key to helping parents who may not know their next step.
“In Kern County last year, we had five safely surrendered babies. Since the law passed, we have saved 105 babies,” Rodgers said.
For more information about the Safe Surrender Baby Law, you can contact your local pregnancy center at 661-326-1907.
Stay in Touch with Us Anytime, Anywhere:
