BOSTON -- Four months after the state enacted a safe haven law, a mother made arrangements to leave her newborn at a Merrimack Valley hospital.

Video

Kelley Tuthill Reports On Law RESOURCES Baby Safe Haven (866) 814-SAFE

NewsCenter 5's Kelley Tuthill reported that authorities are releasing little information in order to protect the woman's confidentiality, but say this first case shows how the law works to protect newborns from harm.

As the city began putting safe haven stickers on fire stations, a mother north of Boston called a hotline looking for help.

"A baby was surrendered in Merrimack Valley at a hospital and taken to a pre-adoptive foster home. Thanks to safe haven and all the work that was done that this child is safe and healthy," Department of Social Services spokeswoman Denise Montiero

For safe haven supporter and City Councilor John Tobin, the success of the law is professionally and personally gratifying.

"Years ago, my brother was abandoned in South Boston. We adopted him. We know he was one of the lucky ones," Tobin said.

Before the law, there were close calls. Last summer, a baby was abandoned in a church yard on Martha's Vineyard. Baby Vinny survived, but officials hope desperate parents will now think to leave their babies at hospitals, police stations and firehouses instead.

Under the law a parent can leave a newborn, 7 days old or younger, at those locations without facing criminal charges.

Since the law was enacted last fall, a safe haven hotline has received about 100 calls a week, and public service announcements created by Boston Arts Academy students fill the airwaves.

"I didn't think it was a big deal. Now, I know we're saving lives. We've helped in many ways," Boston Arts Academy student Sarah Hinton said.