Press Release

Cincinnati, OH – [Sept 3, 2025] – In light of the recent heartbreaking event involving a young University of Kentucky student, Laken Snelling, who had hidden her pregnancy and subsequently was charged when her dead newborn was found in a closet, we are issuing a public appeal to students and their communities. Pregnancy Center Plus aims to raise awareness about the safe, legal, and confidential alternatives available to anyone facing an unplanned pregnancy, regardless of age.

This shocking case underscores the extreme danger of giving birth without medical assistance. Many women in these situations are driven by fear—fear of judgment from family and friends, fear of legal consequences, or fear of academic repercussions. Pregnancy Center Plus’s message is simple: you are not alone, and help is available.

“The fear of an unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming, especially when you feel like you have no one to turn to,” says Laura Curran, Executive Director of PCPlus.” We want to reach those who are hurting and afraid. Our doors are open, and our services are free and completely confidential. Our priority is the safety of both the mother and the baby.”

The center emphasizes several key resources that are often unknown to the public, particularly
students:

  1. Confidentiality for Minors: Anyone can receive free services from one of the 3000 pregnancy help centers across the country, including free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and counseling, even if they are under 18. Parental consent is not required, and all information is kept strictly confidential.
  2. Safe Haven Laws: All states have laws that allow a parent to safely and anonymously surrender an infant at a designated location, such as a hospital or fire station, without fear of prosecution. The age limit for the baby varies by state, but it can be up to 30 days old. This provides a legal, safe alternative to a dangerous, secret birth.
  3. Safe Haven Baby Boxes: An option in Ohio, Kentucky, and many states, these baby boxes allow for the anonymous surrender of a baby in a secure, climate-controlled incubator. A silent alarm alerts first responders immediately to retrieve the infant.
  4. Title IX Protections: Students facing an unexpected pregnancy or who are parenting are protected from discrimination under Title IX. This federal law prohibits schools from penalizing or excluding students based on their pregnancy or related conditions.
  5. Maternity Homes: There are several homes in Cincinnati and over 400 in the United States that provide a supportive, safe, nurturing, and stable environment, complete with furnished rooms and balanced meals.

By highlighting these resources and protections, Pregnancy Center Plus hopes to prevent future tragedies and provide a lifeline for those who feel they have nowhere else to go. The center
urges anyone in need of assistance to seek confidential help immediately.

About Pregnancy Center Plus: Since 1982, we have been serving the Cincinnati area. We are a private non-profit organization dedicated to providing free and confidential support to individuals and families facing unplanned pregnancies, offering a range of services, including pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, information on all options, counseling, prenatal care, a 24/7 nurse chat line, referrals for medical care, and other support services.

Our mission is to listen to an individual’s unique situation, empowering them to make informed decisions for their lives and futures. Visit our website at PCPlus.org for more information or call us at 513-321-3100. Connect with us and discover helpful resources on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram: @pregnancycenterplus.