O’FALLON, Mo. – An infant was dropped off earlier this month at a Safe Haven Baby Box at the O'Fallon Fire Station No. 3 in St. Charles County.

Firefighters found the child on Saturday, Sept. 13. The baby had been left in the safe place by someone unable to care for it.

Crews said this was the first time they’ve had a delivery to the box, which has been in operation for less than 60 days.

“It gave our guys and gals an opportunity to take part in saving this baby’s life,” Assistant Fire Chief Andy Parrish said. “From our understanding, this baby is doing well. It’s in state custody at this time… This is huge. This is a positive for this baby.”

According to Monica Kelsey, founder and CEO of Safe Haven Baby Box, more than 200 babies have been saved through these drop-offs since 2017.

“Anytime a baby box is used for the purpose that it was intended, it’s a good thing,” Kelsey said. “A mother chose this. Basically saying, ‘I want what’s best for my child and it’s not me.’ And that’s heroic. And it’s selfless. It is a good day when a mother keeps her child safe.”

Four babies have been found in Safe Haven boxes in the past 14 days.