Beyond the Box

From Bill to Baby Box: A Legislative Journey


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From a simple conversation to a nationwide movement saving hundreds of lives—the untold story of Safe Haven Baby Boxes unfolds through an intimate chat between founder Monica Kelsey and former Indiana State Representative Casey Cox, the man who authored America's very first baby box legislation.

Their reunion at Woodburn headquarters reveals the extraordinary behind-the-scenes struggle that brought this life-saving concept to reality. When government agencies insisted no safety protocols could make baby boxes viable, Monica made the bold decision to install them anyway—a risk that would ultimately save 288 children's lives and counting.

"I just wanted to save one baby a year," Monica confesses, recalling her frustration when state officials rejected the concept despite finding approximately two abandoned infants dead annually in Indiana. Casey shares his perspective as a freshman legislator who saw potential in Monica's revolutionary idea: "I thought it was wild...but honestly, I thought it was a great idea."

What follows is a master class in persistence, as they recount legislative battles, regulatory roadblocks, and the watershed moment when the first infant was safely surrendered—a midnight text message that changed everything. Now operating in 22 states with 59 babies saved directly through boxes and another 229 through safe haven handoffs, their partnership demonstrates how ordinary citizens can create extraordinary change.

This deeply moving conversation isn't just about policy—it's about purpose, courage, and the ripple effects of standing firm when facing opposition. As Monica puts it, "The right thing to do is always the right thing to do." For anyone who's ever wondered if one person can make a difference, this episode provides an emphatic and inspiring answer.

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Beyond the BoxBy Monica Kelsey

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