Grant helps get word out about Safe Haven program Efforts to educate the public on the state's Safe Haven program will continue with the use of an additional $10,000 state grant. "This is an important initiative that can help save lives," said Ocean County Freeholder Director John P. Kelly, who serves as director of Law and Public Safety. "This money is being used to educate the public and get the word out." Ocean County's Department of Human Services joined with the Center for Kids and Family at Community Medical Center, Toms River in May to help agencies get the word out about the state's Safe Haven program, with the use of a $10,000 state grant. Under the state's Safe Haven law, a baby less than 30 days old can be dropped off at any police department or hospital emergency room by a parent or someone acting on the parent's behalf. The baby is then turned over to the state Division of Youth and Family Services and is placed in a foster home or pre-adoptive home. In 2006 there were 10 Safe Haven safely surrendered babies in New Jersey - the highest of any year since the program started in 2000, compared to five unsafe abandonments, according to state statistics. Since the law was enacted a total of 33 babies were safely surrendered compared to a total of 27 babies that were abandoned. "The Save Haven program is designed to help the very youngest among us to be placed in a safe environment by their parent anonymously and without fear of arrest," said Freeholder Gerry P. Little, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Department of Human Services. "It's important that those who need this program can access information on it." The county has been working with the hospital in promoting awareness of safe havens in Ocean County, with the Safe Haven Infant Protection Community Outreach Program Grant, . "Under the outreach program, 12 people have been trained to conduct educational and informational sessions throughout the county," Little said. "In addition, printed materials have been provided to the chambers of commerce, supermarkets, businesses and libraries in an effort to raise awareness of this program." With the second $10,000 grant from the state Department of Children and Families, Division of Prevention and Community Partnerships, the county and the hospital expect to expand their current efforts in conducting educational sessions throughout the county for community organizations; conduct additional educational training for businesses and community agencies; provide materials at health fairs; and establish a community working group to maintain the outreach effort. Partners in the effort include area high schools, local government agencies including the Ocean County Health Department, social service agencies, community service agencies, and commercial establishments including stores, post offices, libraries and churches. "The partners are serving as the conduits to the information to this program," Little said. "Community organizations are playing a key role in getting the word out on this Safe Haven program." For more information about the Safe Haven program call 1-877-839-2339.