Georgia advocates push for “baby boxes” after newborn found alive in dumpster, mother charged

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — Advocates around the Chattahoochee Valley are pushing for changes to Georgia’s Safe Place for Newborns Act after a baby was found alive inside a dumpster in Columbus.

Columbus police authorities say the child’s mother, who has been identified as 22-year-old Zinnia Hernandez, admitted to leaving the baby inside the dumpster after it was rescued.

She faces multiple charges, including criminal attempt murder, abandonment of a child, first-degree cruelty to children, and reckless conduct. She is being held on a $20,000 bond.

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Under Georgia law, a parent can surrender a baby up to 30 days old at a hospital, fire station or police station.

The baby must be handed over to the authorities in person, but advocates are saying that the necessary face-to-face interaction could be a deterrent for some mothers.

Organizations are pushing for devices called “baby boxes,” that other neighboring states are utilizing like Alabama.

“The device itself is built into the extra wall of a firehouse or hospital,” said Amie Anderson, founder of the organization that’s calling for this device in the state.

She added, “Even if the firemen are out on a call, it lets 911 know, ‘hey someone put a baby inside your device,’ and average time from when the momma shuts the door to when the fireman grabs that baby is less than five minutes.”

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Anderson continued to credit the device’s safety mechanisms and dependability after the newborn is handed over.

“It’s been tested, there’ve been 70 babies surrendered this way since 2017, it works, it keeps the baby safe,” Anderson expressed.

Anderson urges Georgians to contact their local representatives about changing the law to allow newborn safety devices, while she continues to work with lawmakers to pass a bill.

For help or to report a safe haven surrender, contact Georgia’s 24/7 hotline at 1-855-GACHILD or the Parents In Crisis Hotline by calling or texting 1-866-99BABY1.

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