ReZoom

Region #1: Greater Los Angeles, CA

To end baby abandonment, Debbe Magnusen and her husband David founded Project Cuddle. Project Cuddle's goal is to save as many babies' lives as possible. The organization has a strong commitment to help any pregnant girl or woman regardless of race, creed, religious affiliation, financial status or HIV status. In addition, the organization offers a 24-hour crisis hotline.

Winning Regional Essay

"Every day, babies are abandoned in dumpsters and back alleys, where they slowly die. Project Cuddle runs a nation-wide, 24-hour crisis line to stop baby abandonment. To date, they have rescued 564 babies from being abandoned."

"Not too long ago, we received a call from a young woman who hid her pregnancy and delivered at home by herself. She brought the baby, wrapped in a dirty old towel, stuffed in a duffel bag to the park. She gave us instructions on where to meet her as we drove towards that park. There, at the bleachers, placed in a duffel bag, was the tiny newborn. We got both the mother and the baby safely to a hospital."

"Both the woman and her baby were safe. The baby was adopted by a family that this woman chose. Project Cuddle never told her secret. Since then, she has gone back to college and gotten on with her life."

"John Stamos is our National Spokesperson, and he recently helped us in getting a video created that tells students about the fact that there is help and no need to abandon their newborn. No one needs to go to jail if they confidentially work with Project Cuddle on a safe, legal solution."

"Anyone who hates hearing about babies being abandoned should vote for Project Cuddle. With funds raised, we can keep the 1-88-TO CUDDLE crisis line open and saving more babies. If we don't stop baby abandonment ... who will?"