I have to imagine that the decision to give up a child is a difficult one made out of desperation. However, I have to commend these parents for doing what's right for their innocent babies by giving them the chance to live.

Unfortunately, 66 other babies in the last decade were found dumped in trash bins, according to the Inter-Agency Council on Abuse and Neglect, which released its latest report late last month. Of those babies, sadly, only 13 survived.

As the head of an agency charged with advocating for the health and safety of this county's youngest children, from before birth to age 5, these statistics leave me feeling bittersweet. On one hand, I'm glad to see so many children were given the opportunity to live, which they might not have had without this law. But, on the other, my heart breaks for the 53 who did not survive.

First 5 LA supports the safe surrender law, which allows a parent, or anyone authorized by a parent, to confidentially surrender an infant, within three days of birth, to any hospital or fire station. The law guarantees anonymity and freedom from prosecution in these instances, if there are no signs of abuse or neglect.

It is so important that we continue to keep this law in the spotlight, so parents know they have options. If you would like more information about how you can advocate for the health and safety of at-risk newborns, visit www.babysafela.org or call the statewide toll-free number 877-BABY-SAFE (877-222-9723).

Evelyn V. Martinez

Chief Executive Officer
First 5 LA

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