WARREN, Ark. – 4-15-25 – A group of Warren High School students is working to bring a life-saving resource to their community through a new project known as Operation Baby Box. Spearheaded by the school’s EAST program, the initiative aims to install a Safe Haven Baby Box in Warren, providing a secure and anonymous option for parents to surrender newborns in crisis situations.
The project is a collaboration between EAST students, HopePlace of Warren, and several local agencies and leaders, including Mayor Gregg Reep, the Warren City Council, the City’s Fire Chief, Chuck Moore, and the Bradley County Medical Center.
A Safe Haven Baby Box is a temperature-controlled device typically installed in the exterior wall of a hospital or fire station. When a newborn is placed inside, it locks automatically and triggers a silent alarm, alerting nearby medical personnel to respond immediately. The boxes are designed to give parents in crisis a safe and legal way to surrender a child without fear of prosecution or judgment.
Over the past several months, EAST students have taken the lead in presenting the project to civic and government leaders. Their efforts culminated in March with the Warren City Council voting unanimously to support the installation of a Baby Box in the community.
“Our students are teaming up with HopePlace of Warren and local leaders to bring a Baby Box to Warren. This is a secure, anonymous option for parents in crisis to safely surrender a newborn, no questions asked,” the EAST program shared in its announcement.
The EAST team is now focused on fundraising and raising awareness. Donations are being accepted through HopePlace of Warren, and sponsorship opportunities are available for individuals, families, businesses, and churches. Sponsorship levels range from $500 to $5,000, with varying levels of recognition and involvement in the unveiling ceremony.
Community members or organizations interested in learning more or hosting a student-led presentation can contact the EAST program by phone at (870) 226-6736 or (870) 820-8113, or by emailing [email protected].
Donations can be made online at www.hopeplace.com under the Baby Box tab or via PayPal at this link. Checks can also be mailed or dropped off at HopePlace with “Baby Box” in the memo line.
As fundraising continues, students remain hopeful that their efforts will soon provide a vital lifeline to those in need—and potentially save lives in the process.
