Behind every life-saving organization is a deeply human story of vision, sacrifice, and perseverance. In this revealing conversation, Monica Kelsey turns the microphone toward her husband Joe, unveiling the remarkable journey they've traveled as co-founders of Safe Haven Baby Boxes.

What started as a sketch on a napkin following Monica's trip to South Africa has blossomed into a nationwide movement with 365 baby boxes across 24 states. Joe shares how they navigated the early challenges—from building the first prototype with a local firefighter for $700 to the meticulous process of changing safe haven laws and gaining public trust. As Woodburn's mayor and a National Guard member, Joe brings a unique perspective to his role as Senior Project Coordinator, handling the critical behind-the-scenes operations that keep the organization functioning.

The conversation takes a powerful turn as the couple opens up about their darkest period—when their son's involvement in a fatal drunk driving accident nearly derailed their mission. For almost two years, they put the organization on hold, visiting their son in prison every weekend while their marriage weathered tremendous strain. "Our family was devastated," Monica reveals, while Joe affirms that divorce "never crossed our minds." The turning point came when they received news of their first surrendered baby in November 2017, just months before their son's release—a moment Monica describes as divine intervention saying, "It was almost like Christ was saying it's time to get up."

Despite facing critics who oppose anonymous surrenders or adoption itself, the Kelseys remain steadfast in their commitment to saving lives first. Their unwavering stance on anonymity—even declining partnerships with locations unwilling to guarantee no surveillance cameras—demonstrates their pledge to mothers in crisis: "We're not going to sacrifice integrity for growth."

The most heartwarming revelation? How surrendered babies often form lasting relationships with the firefighters who receive them, creating extended "families" through this life-saving program. Their story is a powerful testament to how personal dedication and unwavering partnership can transform tragedy into purpose and a simple idea into a movement that protects our most vulnerable citizens.

Support the mission that started from scratch in 2015 by visiting shbb.org today.

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