The Rockcastle County High School chapter of FCCLA (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America) has played a leading role in bringing a Safe Haven Baby Box to Rockcastle County—an achievement that reflects the power of student leadership, community support, and compassion in action.
The project began in 2022 when FCCLA member Brooke Abney learned about the Safe Haven Baby Box organization and felt called to take action. Supported by her advisor, Mrs. Tammy Camel, and fellow FCCLA members, Brooke launched a campaign to bring this life-saving resource to Rockcastle County.
Through months of research, presentations, and fundraising, the students worked alongside local churches, civic groups, and community members to raise more than $16,500—the cost of installing a Safe Haven Baby Box. When inflation later increased that amount, FCCLA members Kierra Larkey and MaKyla Hester stepped forward to lead the final fundraising push, and the community once again rallied behind them.
Installed at Rockcastle Regional Hospital, the Safe Haven Baby Box provides a safe, anonymous option for parents in crisis to surrender their newborns in accordance with Kentucky’s Safe Haven Law. The box is temperature-controlled, equipped with safety alarms, and monitored by hospital staff—ensuring every baby placed inside receives immediate care.
This afternoon, community members, hospital leadership, students, and local partners gathered for a blessing ceremony honoring the installation of the Safe Haven Baby Box. Safe Haven Baby Box Founder and CEO Monica Kelsey also joined the event and delivered remarks, sharing the mission behind the organization and commending the students for their courage, compassion, and perseverance. Speakers offered prayers for the families the box may one day serve and celebrated the teamwork that made this project possible.
“Our students saw a need, and they didn’t stop until it was met,” said Mrs. Camel. “They turned compassion into action and made a lasting difference for families in our community.”
FCCLA’s mission focuses on strengthening families and supporting communities, and this project embodies that purpose. The Safe Haven Baby Box stands as a powerful example of what can happen when young leaders put their hearts and hands to work for others.
