FRESNO, Calif. (KMPH) -
Abandoned by their parents, left for dead in trash cans and alleys, their bodies never claimed.
Now, they belong to our community.
Nearly two dozen deserted babies in Fresno were given names, and a proper burial Saturday morning, thanks to a project called the Garden of Innocence.
"They should have more than just a morgue tag. So we will give them a final resting place," said Elaine Tosh, manager of Mt. View Cemetery.
The cemetery donated a plot, where dozens of strangers formed a chain of love, passing each tiny urn to their final resting place.
Juan Lopez brought his six kids from Caruthers.
"Yeah it was a little emotional, but kind of a happy time to see these babies were given a decent burial," said Lopez.
A poem was read for each of the 23 babies.
People donated their time, talent, toys and flowers.
Each baby was buried in a casket filled with stuffed animals and sprinkled with rose petals.
"Kind of overwhelming, but I was glad to be here just to send these little angels off," said Stella Espinoza, who attended the burial.
Little angels, once nameless and abandoned, now laid to rest with dignity and love.
"These babies should not, should not be forgotten," said Espinoza.
On average someone finds the body of an abandoned baby in Fresno County about three to four times a year.
Organizers say abandoned babies found in the future will all buried in the Garden of Innocence.
