Your Comprehensive Guide to Car Seat for Free Programs in the U.S.

Ensuring your child’s safety on the road is paramount, and a correctly installed, appropriate car seat is non-negotiable. However, the cost of car seats can be a significant burden for many families. Fortunately, numerous organizations and programs across the United States are dedicated to providing car seats for free programs or offering substantial assistance to families in need.

This guide is designed to be your ultimate resource for navigating the landscape of Car Seat For Free Programs. We will begin by outlining the primary types of organizations that commonly offer free car seats or assistance initiatives. These encompass a wide range of entities, including state and local health departments, dedicated non-profit organizations, the federal WIC program, Medicaid, various insurance companies, state car seat inspection stations, local churches, hospitals and healthcare systems, and pregnancy resource centers. Many of these programs operate on a national scale, ensuring broad accessibility and impact.

Following this general overview, we will present a detailed, state-by-state directory, providing specific information and direct links to valuable resources in your area. This comprehensive approach is intended to ensure that regardless of your location, you can effectively find the assistance and car seat for free program that meets your needs. Utilize the Table of Contents below to quickly navigate to the information most relevant to you.

Understanding Organizations Offering Car Seat for Free Programs

Navigating the different avenues for obtaining a car seat for free program can initially seem complex. To simplify your search, let’s explore the typical organizations that frequently offer these crucial resources.

State or Local Health Departments

Government-run state or local health departments are pivotal in safeguarding public health at both state and community levels. You can find examples such as the Florida Department of Health, Pennsylvania Department of Health, and the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment. These departments are generally accessible through a simple online search for your state or local health department’s official website or by contacting them via their published phone number.

Often, these departments prioritize serving low-income families or those who can demonstrate a specific need. However, it’s important to note that some programs may extend their services to all residents within their jurisdiction. Program availability and eligibility requirements are subject to variation depending on the specific state and even county. Direct communication with your local health department is the most reliable way to obtain accurate, up-to-date information regarding their car seat for free program offerings.

A common requirement in many health department-run programs is the completion of a brief car seat safety education course before a car seat is provided. This ensures parents and caregivers are equipped with the knowledge to use the car seat correctly and maximize child passenger safety.

Non-Profit Organizations

Operating independently from government agencies, non-profit organizations are driven by a mission to address specific social issues or advocate for particular causes. Prominent examples include national organizations like the National Safety Council, Zero Deaths of Children, and regional or local charities focused on family welfare.

These organizations can typically be found through online searches, using platforms like GuideStar or Charity Navigator to verify their legitimacy and understand their mission. Non-profits may serve a broad spectrum of individuals, but assistance is often targeted towards those who demonstrate a defined need or fall within specific income brackets.

As non-profits heavily rely on external funding and donations, the availability of car seats for free program can fluctuate based on these financial factors. It’s always best to check directly with the organization about their current car seat assistance programs.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Programs

WIC is a federally funded supplemental nutrition program dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, and infants and children up to age five. Administered by state and local agencies, WIC provides crucial nutrition education, access to healthy foods, breastfeeding support, and referrals to other health and social services.

Locating your local WIC agency is straightforward through online searches or local government resources. WIC programs generally prioritize low-income women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, postpartum, or have young children. If you are already enrolled in WIC, you may have established eligibility for a car seat for free program.

Similar to other programs, WIC initiatives often incorporate a car seat safety education component as a prerequisite for receiving a car seat. This ensures that WIC participants are not only provided with a car seat but also with the essential knowledge for its safe and effective use.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program providing healthcare coverage to millions of Americans, including many low-income adults, children, pregnant women, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Eligibility for Medicaid is primarily based on income and household size, with specific criteria varying by state.

Applying for Medicaid can be done through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace website, or directly through your state’s specific Medicaid website. Medicaid programs are designed to serve low-income individuals and families, and those who qualify for Medicaid may also be eligible to receive a car seat for free program through Medicaid-related initiatives.

Often, Medicaid-linked car seat programs, similar to other assistance avenues, include a requirement for participants to complete a brief car seat safety course before receiving a car seat. This educational component underscores the importance of proper car seat usage for child safety.

Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are financial institutions offering risk protection through insurance policies. Major examples include national providers like State Farm, Progressive, and Liberty Mutual. If you are seeking information from your current insurance provider, you can typically visit their official website or contact their customer service directly. For those exploring new insurance options, online comparison tools can be valuable resources.

Insurance companies generally serve their policyholders, although the specifics can depend on the policy type and provider. Many insurance companies offer car seats for free program benefits, particularly for insured new mothers or pregnant women as part of their policy benefits.

The availability of these car seat for free program benefits can be embedded within specific insurance plans. It is crucial to carefully review your insurance policy documents or directly consult with an insurance agent to obtain precise information regarding any car seat assistance benefits available to you.

State Car Seat Inspection Stations

State Car Seat Inspection Stations are designated locations, often at fire departments, police stations, or sheriff’s offices, where certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) offer free car seat inspections to ensure proper installation and safety. These technicians are trained to check for recalls, expiration dates, and proper fit of the car seat for the child.

You can locate these inspection stations by utilizing the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Child Car Seat Inspection Station Locator tool or through a simple online search for your local city or county resources. These stations are designed to serve the general public, promoting child passenger safety. While their primary function is inspection and education, some inspection stations also participate in car seat for free program initiatives, occasionally providing car seats to families in need.

It’s important to note that not all inspection stations offer free car seats. It’s advisable to call your local station in advance to inquire whether they have a car seat for free program or can connect you with local charities that provide car seats. Inspection stations are often well-informed about local resources and can be a valuable point of contact.

Local Churches

Local churches, as community-based religious institutions, frequently operate outreach programs extending support to individuals and families within their communities. Finding local churches is easily done through online searches or community directories.

Churches typically aim to serve members of their local community, regardless of religious affiliation. While churches themselves may not directly offer a car seat for free program, they can often serve as valuable connectors, linking individuals to charities or organizations that do provide resources to low-income families, including car seats.

Resource availability through churches can vary significantly depending on the individual church and its community outreach programs. Direct outreach to local churches is the most effective way to inquire about potential assistance with car seats or referrals to relevant programs.

Pregnancy Life Centers

Pregnancy Life Centers are often non-profit organizations dedicated to providing support, resources, and education to women throughout pregnancy and early parenthood. These centers offer a range of assistance, from counseling and prenatal classes to material aid like maternity clothing, baby supplies, and sometimes even car seats for free program access.

Locating a Pregnancy Life Center in your area can be achieved through online searches specifying your local region. While some centers are affiliated with national networks like Care Net or Heartbeat International, many independent local centers also operate within communities.

Pregnancy Life Centers primarily focus on serving women who are pregnant or have recently become mothers. Their goal is to provide holistic support during pregnancy and the early years of raising a child. Many Pregnancy Life Centers integrate their resources and aid within broader programs, often involving parenting or childbirth education classes. Expectant mothers participating in these classes may become eligible to receive items like car seats at no cost. The specific offerings and requirements vary between centers, so direct contact is recommended for detailed information.

It’s important to remember that Pregnancy Life Centers are often funded through donations and community support. The availability of specific items, including car seats for free program opportunities, can be subject to fluctuations. However, these centers are generally committed to providing as much assistance as possible to support mothers and their children.

Hospitals and Health Care Systems

Hospitals and Health Care Systems are medical institutions providing a wide range of patient care services, from routine check-ups to specialized treatments. Examples include large systems like Ascension, CommonSpirit Health, and local community hospitals. These can be found through local directories or online searches.

Hospitals and healthcare systems typically serve pregnant women, new parents, or families with young children who are patients within their network. Some hospitals offer car seats for free program initiatives directly or can guide patients towards relevant local resources.

It is crucial to note that not all hospitals or healthcare systems provide this specific service. Direct communication with the hospital or healthcare system you are affiliated with is the best way to inquire about any available car seat for free program options or related resources they may offer.

State-by-State Guide to Car Seat for Free Programs

To make finding a car seat for free program easier, we’ve compiled a state-by-state guide. Browse the list below to find resources in your specific state. Please note that program availability and eligibility criteria can change, so it’s always best to contact the listed organizations directly for the most current information.

ALABAMA Free Car Seats

Alabama Department of Public Health (Statewide): Potentially offers car seat assistance for expectant mothers or parents receiving federal benefits like WIC, AllKids, Food Stamps, or Medicaid. Monthly car seat clinics are held by the Injury Prevention Branch in Montgomery (appointments required, often booked in advance). Programs active in Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and Huntsville. Website.
Alabama Farmers Federation (Statewide): Members can purchase low-cost car seats and booster seats. Order forms at local Alfa offices. Prices (including shipping): Cosco Scenera NEXT Convertible Seat & Cosco Finale 2-in-1 Booster: $40 each; Cosco Pronto Belt-Positioning Booster: $30. Website.
Children’s of Alabama, (Birmingham): Free car seat program for patients discharged without a car seat. Families must watch a safety video before receiving the seat. Learn more
Baby’s Bounty (Montgomery): Provides essential newborn items, including car seats, to families in need in the Montgomery area. Learn more

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ALASKA Free Car Seats

Safe Alaskans (Anchorage): Car seats for families in need. Suggested donation: $10 for booster seats, $35 for car seats. Website
Community Pregnancy Center (Anchorage): “Life Lessons” classes allow participants to earn “Baby Bucks” for items like car seats. Website.
Mat-Su Services for Children and Adults (Wasilla): Reduced cost car seats on a sliding scale for all families. Website.
Alaska Injury Prevention Center (Anchorage): Limited car seats and booster seats for a small donation. Website.
Alaska Child Passenger Safety Coalition (Statewide): Events with free car seats and booster seats. Event calendar
Fairbanks Safe Rider Program (Fairbanks): May have car seats/booster seats available. Website.
Juneau Police (Juneau): Inspections by appointment, replacement seats for a minimum fee if needed. Website.
Alaska DOT (Statewide): Lists potential free car seat resources. Website

ARIZONA Free Car Seats

Children Are Priceless Passengers (Statewide): Operates in 9 locations. $35 fee for safety class. Free car seat for those lacking a safe seat. Website.
Phoenix Children’s Hospital (Phoenix): Car seat distribution. Road safety programs page.
Yavapai Regional Medical Center (Prescott): Free/discounted car seats with safety class. Call (928) 771-5651 or Website.
Deer Valley Unified School District Child Car Seat Safety Program (Phoenix): Limited free car seats with education class. Website
Tuscon Medical Center Car Seat Loaner Program (Tucson): $40 for one-month loan. Giveaway events by Safe Kids Pima County. Website.
HealthLinks Car Seat Program (Phoenix): Free car seat for qualified individuals after a 2-hour class. Details here.

ARKANSAS Free Car Seats

Farm Bureau Federation (Statewide): Members with Farm Bureau Insurance can access low-cost car seats ($15). Website.
Rogers Police Department Car Seat Loan Program (Rogers): Loan program for families with financial hardship. Distribution Wednesdays 9 am – 3 pm. Installation service available. Learn more

CALIFORNIA Free Car Seats

California Office of Traffic Safety (Statewide): County-based directory for car seat education and distribution resources. Website.
Police Departments & California Highway Patrol Offices (Statewide): Free exchange for expired car seats in most locations. More information.
OC Health (Orange County): List of organizations offering car seat education and free/low-cost car seats. Detailed information.
First 5 LA (Los Angeles County): New Economics for Women’s Child Passenger Safety Program offers free car seats after safety class for qualifying individuals. Website.
Clinic in the Park’s Boosters in a Bag (Orange County): Free booster seat after online course completion. More details.
Pacific Safety Center (San Diego County): Free car seats for low/median income, Native American, and military families. Website.
Solano County Public Health (Solano County): Vibe Solano offers safety classes and vouchers for low-cost car seats for low-income families. Website.
Safe Kids Sacramento (Sacramento County): Low or no-cost car seats for low-income families after online class. Website.
River to Coast Children’s Centers (Sonoma County): Low-cost car seat program and safety education for low-income families. Website.
City of Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz County): Free car seats for low-income families, appointment needed. More details.
CHOC Child Safety Seat Distribution Program (Orange County): $30 car seat for CHOC patients after safety class. Website.
Camarena Health (Madera County): Free car seat after car seat safety class and demonstrating learned knowledge. More information.
Family Health Centers of San Diego (San Diego County): Free car seats for patients in Prenatal program (eligibility required). Website.
Venice Family Clinic (Los Angeles County): Monthly car seat safety classes with free car seats for low-income families. Website.
St. Mary’s Medical Center (Los Angeles County): Welcome Baby program referrals for free/low-cost baby essentials, including car seats. Website.
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (Los Angeles County): Car seat safety classes twice monthly, free car seat for families receiving public assistance. More information.
St Francis Medical Center (Los Angeles County): Free car seat for eligible families after class completion. More information.
East Valley Community Health Center (Los Angeles County): Free virtual car seat safety class with free car seat for qualified families. More details.
Whittier Hospital (Los Angeles County): Complimentary rear-facing car seat and diaper bag for moms delivering at the hospital. More details.
Butte County Public Health (Butte County): Free car seat class with low-cost car seats for qualifying low-income families. Website.
San Diego County Public Health (San Diego County): Keep Em Safe program provides free car seats for low-income, active military, or refugee women (8+ months pregnant) and families with children up to age 9. More information.
Shasta County Health and Human Services (Shasta County): Free car seat for pregnant moms attending 3 classes and meeting qualifications. More information.
Plumas County Public Health Agency (Plumas County): Free car seat for eligible families upon education and installation by a certified technician. More information.
Colusa County Family Action Centers (Colusa County): Classes for $20, families may qualify for free car seat. More information.
Merced County Public Health (Merced County): $25 car seat class.

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COLORADO Free Car Seats

Safe Kids Larimer County (Larimer County): Car seat resource program. $30 donation requested per car seat. Website. Larimer County details.
Morgan County Public Health (Morgan County): $50 car seat vouchers for low-income families (redeemable at Walmart). Family pays balance if seat exceeds $50. Morgan County details. Contact directly for voucher program details.
Custer County Program (Custer County): Contact Terra Raye for car seat resources: 719-783-9451, 719-371-3046, [email protected]. Prioritizes county residents meeting qualifications (suspected). Custer County information.
Montezuma County Car Seat Program: Certified technicians ensure proper fitting and installation. Parents taught proper use. Reduced cost car seats provided. Learn more

CONNECTICUT Free Car Seats

St. Gianna Pregnancy Resource Center: Maternity and baby items for those in need. Website.
Hope Pregnancy Center: “Earn While You Learn” program provides education and material assistance, including car seats. Website.
Southington Police Department: Considers requests for child passenger seats. Email [email protected] with request narrative. Facebook page.
Carolyn’s Place Pregnancy Care Center: “Earn While You Learn Classes” for first-time parents, potential eligibility for baby items including car seats. Website.

DELAWARE Free Car Seats

Delaware Opportunities Inc. (Statewide): Free car seats and installation instruction for income-qualified Delaware families. Website.
Delaware Division of Public Health (Statewide): Car seat inspection stations with certified technicians. Free car seats provided at events (dates on calendar). Calendar.

FLORIDA Free Car Seats

Florida Department of Transportation Safety Office (Statewide): Sponsors car seat purchase and distribution to qualified CPS instructors/technicians. More information.
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital (St. Petersburg): Low-cost car seats for families in need. More information.
Florida Farm Bureau (Statewide, Members Only): Members can get up to 3 car seats for $25 and booster seats for $15. More details.
Tampa Police Department (Tampa): CPSTs provide and/or install child safety seats for residents in need. Website.
Safety Council of Palm Beach County, Inc. (Palm Beach County): Childsaver Car Seat Program offers reduced-cost seats to those in need. More details.
Florida Health Pinellas (Pinellas County): Workshops on safety seat usage. Low-cost seats for those meeting financial requirements. Website.
Mothers Helping Mothers (Sarasota, Manatee, and surrounding counties): Non-profit providing basic necessities including car seats. Website.
St. Johns County Tax Collector – Project Buckle Up: Free car seats for families in need with education on installation and usage. Project Buckle Up
Wolfson Children’s Hospital Car Safety Program: Low-cost car seat workshop with reduced cost seats and safety education. Low-cost Car Seat Workshop

GEORGIA Free Car Seats

Child Occupant Safety Project (Statewide): Child safety seats and installation information via Mini Grant Program. Collaborates with community partners. More information.
South Health District Car Seat Program (Valdosta, Lowndes County): Child safety seats for low-income families. Website.
District 4 Public Health (Troup County and eight other counties): Booster seats and safety training for financially eligible families via Mini-Grant. More details.
Safe Kids Cherokee County (Cherokee County): Up to ten car seats and education for financially qualified families via mini-grant. More information.
Safe Kids North Fulton (North Fulton County): Child seat education and free child seat for qualifying families via Mini Grant. More details.
Northeast Georgia Health System (Northeast Georgia): Car Seat Safety Class with discounted car seat distribution for attendees. Website
Women’s Enrichment Center of Dalton (Calhoun, Gordon County): Car Seat Education Class, free car seat for each child attending. More details.
Bartow County Fire & Emergency Services (Bartow County): Car seat checks/installations, assistance obtaining car seats for low-income families. More information.
Safe Kids Program at Children’s Hospital of Georgia: Car seat safety program. Contact hospital for assistance. Safe Kids Program
Safe Kids Cobb County: Injury prevention including car seat safety. Contact directly for car seat assistance. Safe Kids Cobb County

HAWAII Free Car Seats

Statewide: $25 tax credit per year for booster/child safety seat purchase. More information.
Kapi’olani Medical Center for Women & Children (Oahu): Past partnerships with Farmers Insurance Hawaii for free car seats and education. Contact Car Seat Check office for current program status and free car seat checks. Website and here.
Aloha Pregnancy Center (Oahu): Baby & Me Boutique with baby items, including car seats. Website.
Keiki Closet (Oahu): Partners with LIV pregnancy center, provides baby essentials to moms in need, including car seats. Website.
Malama Pregnancy Center of Maui (Maui): Material assistance to clients, potential resource for free car seats. Website.

IDAHO Free Car Seats

St. Luke’s Children’s and Kohl’s – Right Seat 4 Kids 4 Care (Statewide): Free car seats for families in need. Contact St. Luke’s Children’s Car Seat Program at (208) 381-3033. More information.
Kootenai Health (Kootenai County): Car seat education, installation, limited free seats for qualified individuals (donation basis). More details.
Safe Kids USA (Statewide): Contact districts for free/discounted car seats:
- DISTRICT 1: Kootenai Health, (208) 666-2030
- DISTRICT 2: Moscow Police Department, (208) 883-7054; Success by 6 of the Palouse, (208) 882-7387; St Joseph Regional Medical Center-Family Beginnings, (208) 799-5430
- DISTRICT 4: Safe Kids Treasure Valley, (208) 381-3033; Meridian Fire Department, (208) 884-0597
- DISTRICT 5: Safe Kids of Magic Valley, (208) 814-7640 (low-cost seats available)
- DISTRICT 6: Southeast District Health, (208) 478-6315
- DISTRICT 7: Madison Memorial Hospital, (208) 359-6710
Medical Home Portal – Idaho Car Seat Safety: Directory of Idaho car seat safety resources. Medical Home Portal – Idaho Car Seat Safety

ILLINOIS Free Car Seats

DuPage County Health Department’s Child Car Seat Program (DuPage County): Free car seats for low-income families in collaboration with Carelink Foundation. Safety training required (English/Spanish). More details.
Buckle Up Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Program (Chicago, Cook County): Car seat information, installation assistance, reduced-cost seats for at-risk families. Monthly seminars, inspection stations, partner network. More information.
CountyCare (Cook County): Free car seats for expectant parents. More details.
Fair Hope (Vermilion County): Car seats for families WITHOUT a vehicle (children 5-40 pounds). More details.
Safe Kids Coalition (Statewide): Safe car seat events, instruction, inspection. Free/low-cost seats and safety products may be available. More information.
OSF Children’s Hospital (Peoria, Peoria County): Low-cost car seat program for families in need. More information.
Auxiliary Stroger Hospital: Community outreach programs, including car seats for families in need. Auxiliary Stroger Hospital Community Programs
Grant A Wish Inc. Chicago: Baby Program provides essentials including car seats to parents who cannot afford them. Grant A Wish Inc. Baby Program

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INDIANA Free Car Seats

Community Health Network (Marion County): Free car seats for parents in need in Indianapolis area. More details.
Gear-Up for Safety Program (Statewide): Safety equipment including car seats for child-safe homes. More details.
Project L.O.V.E. (Statewide): Law enforcement program, education on car seat use/installation. Free seats for low-income Indiana residents. More information.
Franciscan Health Car Seat Safety Clinics (Tippecanoe County): Free car seats for families in need (reservations and eligibility required). More details.
Indiana University School of Medicine (Marion County): Partnership with Go Insurance for free car seats as part of national safety initiative. More details.
Spencer County Car Seat Program: Inspections and car seats for income-eligible families. Spencer County Car Seat Program

IOWA Free Car Seats

Unitypoint Health – Des Moines, Statewide: Child Passenger Safety Technicians, instruction on car seat use. Free convertible/combination/booster seats for families in need (no baby carriers). More information.
Johnson County Empowerment/ECIA, Johnson County: Periodic Car Seat Events for safety checks and free seats for children in need. More information.
Jones County Public Health, Jones County: Car seats and booster seats available for families in need. More information.
Stork’s Nest in Polk County, Iowa: Incentive-based program for low-income new/expecting mothers. Baby items including car seats, earned through healthy behaviors and classes. Call (515) 558-9950 or here.
University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital Safety Store: Discounted car seats and safety products with education. Website
Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa: Free car seats for families in need via “Kids on the Go!” program. More details.

KANSAS Free Car Seats

Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office, Statewide: Program seats for eligible families with proof of eWIC, KanCare, Vision Card, or Kansas Farm Worker Health Program. Car seats for pregnant women (30 days before due date) and replacement seats in specific situations. More information.
Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) and North Kansas City Fire Department, North Kansas City: Free car seats for low-income families via federal grant and Head Start partnership. Income restrictions apply. More information.
Swope Health (Kansas City): Free car seat giveaway event celebrating moms and healthy babies. Website.
Baby Talk ICT (Wichita): Car seat safety classes, free car seats for families in need (eligibility required). Website.
Injury Free Coalition for Kids (Kansas City): Car seat safety program, potentially offering car seats for families in need. More details.

KENTUCKY Free Car Seats

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Statewide: Inspections, and sometimes free car seats for families in need. Official website.
Hardin County Health Department, Hardin County: Car seat program, free car seats for families in need. Education video and certified technician installation required. Website.
Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness, Louisville: Checkups by Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians. Free car seats for individuals in need meeting criteria. Website.
Jessamine County Health Department, Jessamine County: HANDS program, education, resources, and free car seats for parents in need. Participation in HANDS and safety class required. Website.
Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, Lexington-Fayette County: Car seats for eligible families and car seat inspections. Website.

LOUISIANA Free Car Seats

Councilman Free Car Seat Program, Baton Rouge: Free car seats for qualifying parents receiving WIC/SNAP assistance. Preregistration required. News page.
University Medical Center New Orleans, Statewide: Free car seats for families in need throughout Louisiana via injury prevention program. Website.

MAINE Free Car Seats

Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, Statewide: Free car seats for qualifying Maine families. Contact directly to check child’s eligibility. More details.
KVCAP Child & Family Services Department, Statewide: Two distribution stations for Maine Bureau of Highway Safety program, providing car seats to low-income families. Official website.
Maine Families Washington County, Washington County: Free convertible and booster car seats for income-eligible families via Maine Bureau of Highway Safety program. Conditions apply. More details.
Southern Kennebec Child Development Corporation, Kennebec County: Collaborates with Bureau of Highway Safety, car seat education and distribution. Eligible families schedule appointment with technician for car seat. Official website.

MARYLAND Free Car Seats

Safe Kids Frederick County, Frederick County: Free car seats for Frederick County residents. Program of Frederick County Health Department. Official webpage.
Maryland Department of Health’s Kids In Safety Seats, Statewide: Low-cost car/booster seats for families who cannot afford them. Short-term special needs loaner programs. Seat availability varies. Webpage.
Holy Cross Health (Silver Spring, MD): Car Seat Rental Program for newborns and children. Website.

MASSACHUSETTS Free Car Seats

Massachusetts Car Seat Distribution Program, Statewide: Car seats provided to qualifying entities for distribution to needy families. Official website.
Boston Children’s Primary Care, Boston: Car seats and booster seats to low-income families receiving care. Website.
Injury Free Coalition for Kids, Worcester: Car seat check-up events twice a month. Education and car seats/booster seats for families in need. Official webpage.
UMass Amherst Police Department, Amherst: Grant-funded car seats for parents in need. CPS trained installers for checks. Contact Officer Brian Kellogg. More information.
Boston Public Health Commission’s Childhood Injury Prevention Program, Boston: Child safety seats for Boston’s low-income families meeting MassHealth eligibility or below MA poverty line. Webpage.
Boston Medical Center (Boston): Car seat program for patients. Program PDF.

MICHIGAN Free Car Seats

Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, Statewide: Supports car seat distribution initiatives, regional seat check events, fitting stations for low-income families. More details.
Family Futures, Kent County: Medicaid enrolled parents in Kent County eligible (income level exceptions possible). More information.
Kids Always Ride Safe (KARS), Houghton and Keweenaw Counties: Car seat education, low-cost car seat alternative. Available to Houghton/Keweenaw County families, including WIC. Website.
Maternal Infant Health Program, Statewide: Free car seats for Medicaid families, discounted seats for families with economic hardships. More details.
Trinity Health Michigan (Michigan): Child injury prevention program including car seat safety. Website.

MINNESOTA Free Car Seats

Child Passenger Safety Program, Statewide: Free car seats for families in need. More details.
The Baby Blanket (Michigan): Crib & Car Seat Program for families in need, providing car seats and other necessities. Website.
Sherburne County Public Health, Sherburne County: Car seats for Sherburne County residents meeting income requirements (WIC, Medical aid, Medica PMAP automatically qualify). More details.
Every Day Miracles, Statewide: Car seats donated to families with Medical Assistance health coverage. Website.
Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Scott County: Car seats for uninsured and low-income families (when available). More information.
Renville County Public Health, Renville County: Free car seat class for residents. Car seats accessible to PrimeWest, Blue Plus, and other eligible groups. More details.
Norman-Mahnomen Public Health Department, Norman-Mahnomen Counties: Free car seats for MinnesotaCare and Medical Assistance participants. Guidance on seat selection/use. More details.
Vadnais Heights City (Statewide): Car Seat Program, safety checks and car seats for families in need. Website
Mille Lacs County Community Health (Minnesota): Safety checks and assistance obtaining car seats. Website.
Carver County Public Health (Minnesota): Child Passenger Safety Program, car seat checks, low-cost car seats for eligible families. Website.

MISSISSIPPI Free Car Seats

Mississippi State Department of Health, Statewide: Free infant/convertible child safety seats for eligible Mississippi children. Assessment form.
Farm Bureau Mississippi, Statewide: Members can order low-cost car seats/booster seats via Child Saver Program. Webpage.

MISSOURI Free Car Seats

Platte County Buckle Up Kids Car Seat Program, Platte County: Free car seats for Platte County residents meeting income requirements. More details.
SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Safety Program, Statewide: Free car seats for children under one, parent instruction. Local Child Passenger Safety Partners for older children’s seats. More information.
Cass County Health Department, Cass County: Free car seat safety workshops, car/booster seats for families in need. Website.
Henry County Health Center, Henry County: Car seats for low-income families. Official website.
Lebanon Missouri Child Seat Safety Program, Lebanon: Car seats given away to those in need. More information.
Lawrence County Health Department (Lawrence County): Education, installation assistance, low-cost/free car seats for eligible families. Website.
Safe Kids Columbia, Columbia: Free car seats for those in need. More details.
Callaway County Ambulance District, Callaway County: Partnership with SERVE, Inc. and Safe Kids Columbia. Voucher application at SERVE, Inc. required for free car seat. More information.

MONTANA Free Car Seats

Missoula County, Missoula County: Car seat vouchers for public assistance recipients (first-come, first-serve). Website.
Greater Gallatin Safety Commission, Bozeman area: Free car seats for families in need. More details.
SafeSeat for Baby, Statewide: Referrals for free car seats and training from public health department or social service organization. Webpage.
Safer Start Montana, Statewide: Car seats for families in need (online application). Website.
Ravalli County, Ravalli County: Car seats for families in need (by appointment). More information.
Safe Kids Yellowstone County, Yellowstone County: Car seats when available. Reduced-cost program and potential free seats for qualified individuals under grants. Appointment required for car seat check. More details.

NEBRASKA Free Car Seats

Safe Kids South Central at Mary Lanning Healthcare, Hastings: Lower cost car seats for Medicaid, Kids Connection, or WIC recipients. Website.
Three Rivers Public Health Department (Dodge, Saunders, and Washington counties): Partnership with Safe Kids, car seats for eligible families who cannot afford new ones. Website.

NEVADA Free Car Seats

Ron Wood Family Resource Center, Carson City: Discounted car seats (when available). More information.
NyECC Child Car Seat Inspections & Installation, Nye County: Certified technicians inspect/install child safety seats. No-cost seats for qualified individuals. Contact NyECC at 775-727-9970. Website.
Car Seats for Christy, Statewide: Non-profit giving car seats to those in need. More information.
Baby’s Bounty, Statewide: Car seats and baby essentials to families meeting income guidelines. Program requirements.

NEW HAMPSHIRE Free Car Seats

Amerihealth New Hampshire: Free car/booster seats for Amerihealth NH child members (up to $129 value). Amerihealth NH benefits
WellSense: Free infant/booster seats for WellSense NH MassHealth ACO/MCO members (child members 5-65 lbs). Pregnant mothers can request 45 days before due date. Call WellSense Member Services. WellSense program details
New Hampshire Right to Life (Statewide): Supports pregnancy centers providing baby items including car seats. Support Pregnancy Centers page.

NEW JERSEY Free Car Seats

Burlington County Child Safety Seat Inspection Program: Free car seats for expecting/infant families in Burlington County who cannot afford one. Application and proof of income required. Program details
Ride of My Life: Charity providing car seats to mothers who cannot afford them to bring newborns home from hospitals in NJ. Hospitals encouraged to contact for maternity patients in need. Ride of My Life initiative Charity outreach

NEW MEXICO Free Car Seats

New Mexico Child Safety Seat Distribution Program, Statewide: 40 distribution stations statewide. Criteria vary, most require proof of WIC, Medicaid, or New Mexi-Kids. $25 cash payment typically required. Website.

NEW YORK Free Car Seats

Ardent Solutions Car Seat Distribution Program, Allegany County: Free car seats for low-income families and others in Allegany County. Booster seats available. One-time assistance. More details.
Wayne County Public Health Child Safety Programs’ Car Seat Distribution Class, Wayne County: Free car seats for those who cannot afford one (contingent on class attendance, ID, proof of public assistance, Wayne County residency). Details.
Onondaga County Car Seat Program, Onondaga County: Free car seats via Catholic Charities of Onondaga County (eligibility requirements based on poverty, call for details). Website.
Tremont Neighborhood Health Action Center, Bronx, NYC: Newborn car seats or safe sleeping surfaces for families. More information.
New York Connects (Washington County): Car seat distribution program in Washington County. Car Seat Distribution Program page.
New Hope Family Services (Syracuse): Pregnancy-related services, help obtaining car seats. Website.
Cornell Cooperative Extension (Livingston County): Traffic Safety Education program, including child safety seat education. Website.

NORTH CAROLINA Free Car Seats

Child Passenger Safety program, Henderson County: Education on car seat use/installation. Free car seats for Henderson County homeowners without suitable car seats. Website.
Alleghany Council on Children, Youth, and Families (Alleghany County): “Buckle Up Car Seat Distribution Program”. Website.
The Bear Closet (Asheville): Assistance including car seats for families in need. Website

NORTH DAKOTA Free Car Seats

North Dakota Car Seat Distribution, Statewide: State program sponsored by ND Dept of Health/Transportation. Over 25 distribution locations. Location finder.
First District Health Unit Car Seat Distribution Program, Ward County: Discounted car seats for all families ($61 car seats, $5 boosters). Further discount for public assistance recipients ($30 car seats, $5 boosters). Appointment only. Details.
Bismarck Child Safety Program (Bismarck): Car seat safety education, potential resources for families in need. Website.
Safe Kids Grand Forks (Grand Forks): Checkup events, education, potential car seats for families in need. Website.

OHIO Free Car Seats

Ohio Buckles Buckeyes (OBB) Child Passenger Safety Program, Statewide: Free car/booster seats for qualified low-income families in all Ohio counties. Instructional session by licensed technician required. Convertible Seat ($20 donation) & Booster Seat ($10 donation). Program details.
Columbus Public Health Car Seat Program, Columbus: Discounted car/booster seats for families in need (referral from WIC or Columbus Public Health Home Visiting required). Convertible car seat $30, booster seat $10. 60–90 minute lesson required. More details.
Akron Children’s Hospital Car Seat Program, Akron: Reduced cost new car seats for low-income families receiving government assistance (WIC, Medicaid, etc.). Education on seat use/installation provided. Occasional free seats from ODH. More details.
Lorain County Car Seat Program, Lorain County: Education on child passenger safety, car/booster seats for qualifying individuals (Lorain County residents, WIC/SNAP eligible income, 30-minute information session). More details.
Tuscarawas County Health Department Car Seat Program, Tuscarawas County: Certified car seat technicians on staff. WIC Income Eligible children may receive car seat every 3 years (class and quiz required). More details.
Putnam County Health Department Car Seat Program, Putnam County: Free car seats for Putnam County residents meeting WIC Income Guidelines or WIC income eligibility. More details.
Warren County Health District Car Seat Program, Warren County: Free car seats. WIC income limits required (WIC enrollment not required). Child meeting seat requirements, educational class attendance required. More details.
Knox Public Health Car Seat Program, Knox County: Convertible/booster seats for low-income families via Ohio Buckles Buckeyes program. $10 charge suggested at class. More details.
Belmont County Health Department Car Seat Program, Belmont County: Free car seats for eligible families (WIC eligibility proof required: paystubs, WIC/Medicaid card, W2s, unemployment benefits). More details.
Lake County General Health District (LCGHD) Car Seat Program, Lake County: Car seats for income-eligible families via University Hospitals and Ohio Buckles Buckeyes (OBB). Instructional class required. More details.
Perry County Health Department Car Seat Program, Perry County: Free car seats. Perry County residents, WIC customers, or meeting WIC income limits eligible for convertible/booster seat. Infant car seats for families receiving Job and Family Services assistance. More details.

OKLAHOMA Free Car Seats

SPARC Car Seats: Single Parent Academic Resources Collaborative, Oklahoma City: Car seats distributed first-come, first-served. Local car seat events listed on website (some free/low-cost seats). Details
Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, Injury Prevention Service, Safe Kids Oklahoma, Statewide: Car/booster seat program via county health departments. Free car/booster seats for WIC, Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF recipients. Details
Bethany Children’s Health Center, Bethany: Inexpensive car seats for eligible individuals. Details
Infant Crisis Services, Oklahoma City: Supplies including diapers, blankets, baby clothes, formula, car seats, and essentials for those in need. Details
Muskogee County Emergency Medical Service, Muskogee County: Kirschner Trusts grant for car seats for low-income families in Muskogee County. Details

OREGON Free Car Seats

Grants Pass Fire and Rescue, Grants Pass: Reduced-cost seats for OHP recipients or families working with WIC. Convertible/combination seats $30, booster seats $10. Additional WIC discounts. Education on car seat use required. Details
Oregon Building Healthy Families, Wallowa County: Car seats with class on sliding scale payment basis. Details
Bambinos Oregon, Polk County: $15 deposit and education for current Bambinos clients living in Polk County. Details
Care Inc, Tillamook County: Low-cost car seats (case-by-case basis) and essentials for Tillamook County residents. Details
Legacy Health, Portland: Car seat safety class with no/low-cost car seats (availability dependent). Details
Multnomah County Healthy Birth Initiative, Multnomah County: Discounted car seats for Black/African American families in Multnomah County. Details
Doernbacher Children’s Hospital, Portland: Works with ODOT to check family eligibility for car seat distribution program. Details
Safe Kids Lower Columbia, Columbia County: Interactive car seat program, one-on-one instruction, $50 Visa gift card for appointment, free car seat if needed. Details
Salem Right to Life Center, Salem: Earn Baby Bucks for a new car seat by taking five parenting classes. Details
Umatilla-Morrow Head Start, Inc, Umatilla & Morrow Counties: Low-cost car seats for low-income families in/near Hermiston/Pendleton. Convertible seats $30, high-back boosters $20, no-back boosters $10. Details
Vine Medical Pregnancy Health Clinic: New car seat by participating in educational programs. Details, Educational Resources
City of Albany, Albany: Albany Area Child Passenger Safety Program, low-cost seats for income-eligible families in Linn/Benton counties. Referral from Love, Inc or WIC for WIC recipients.

PENNSYLVANIA Free Car Seats

Tri-County Community Action, Dauphin County: Discounted car seat program in collaboration with SAFE KIDS in Dauphin County/Penn State Children’s Hospital for referred families/public assistance recipients. Safety checks available. Details
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia: Free child car seats via CHOP Child Safety Seat Program (referral from healthcare professional required, public assistance and green EBT Access card required). Details
Pennsylvania Traffic Injury Prevention Project’s Car Seat Loan Program, Statewide: Free car seats at locations throughout the county. Details
Central Pennsylvania Community Action, Central Pennsylvania: Car seat loaner program for those unable to afford car seats for infants/toddlers. In collaboration with PennDOT/PA Traffic Injury Prevention Project, appropriate car seats loaned to those meeting income levels (150% poverty line or less). Details

RHODE ISLAND Free Car Seats

Injury Prevention Center’s 4-Safety Program, Statewide: Certified child passenger safety technicians (CPSTs) teach car seat installation. Qualified low-income families may receive a car seat. Details
Seats 4 Safety Program at Lifespan (Statewide): Car seat inspections, potential free car seats for eligible families unable to afford them. Website.

SOUTH CAROLINA Free Car Seats

Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital, Midlands: Discounted car seats via Buckle Buddies program/Medicaid discount program at Palmetto Health Baptist’s Birthplace. Regular car seat $65, convertible car seat $35. Contact: (803) 296-5437 More details
Molina Healthcare of South Carolina: Free car seat program for eligible members completing 6 prenatal visits. Email [email protected] with “Car Seat” subject, member details (name, address, phone, Molina ID). Car seat types vary. More details

SOUTH DAKOTA Free Car Seats

South Dakota Department of Social Services, Statewide: Child Safety Seat Distribution Program ensuring children in appropriate seats until 4’9″. Free car seats for income-eligible families. Details
Sanford Children’s CHILD Services, Statewide: Child Safety Seat Distribution Program, free car seats for income-eligible families until child reaches 4’9″. Details
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, Statewide: Free car seats for parents meeting requirements (South Dakota residents, enrolled in qualifying financial assistance program: Medicaid, WIC, SNAP, CHIP, Child Care Assistance, Head Start). Details

TENNESSEE Free Car Seats

Shelby County Health Department Child Car Seat Program, Shelby County: Free convertible car seats for Shelby County residents with children under 2 meeting program eligibility. Details
Mother To Mother (Nashville): Non-profit providing health, safety, and wellness items for infants/children in need, potential car seat programs. Website.

TEXAS Free Car Seats

Texas Health and Human Services, Statewide: Safe Riders initiative educates on child passenger safety, distributes child safety seats to low-income families. Referrals to local distribution stations. Details
Denton County Public Health, Denton County: Safe Riders initiative, child safety seat distribution/education. Car seat for eligible families attending course (self-certified financial need, working safety belt, 1-hour session). Monthly classes. Details
St. John’s Community Center, Travis County: Free car seat program for low-income families. Car seat safety course completion required. Details
Living Alternatives of Jacksonville, Jacksonville: Free child car seats for low-income pregnant mothers/mothers with small children (State of Texas Safe-Riders Program distributor). Details
UMC Foundation El Paso (El Paso): Car Seat Safety Program provides car seats to families who cannot afford them. Website
Families to Freedom (Dallas): Car seat program for families in need, ensuring safe transportation for children. Website.

UTAH Free Car Seats

Salt Lake County Health Department, Salt Lake County: New car seats sold to qualifying families on sliding fee scale (income ≤ 195% federal poverty level, car seat class required). Details
Tooele County Health Department, Tooele County: Low-cost car seats for qualifying families. Free car seat education classes (first Wednesday monthly). Details
Weber-Morgan Health Department, Weber County: New car seats sold on sliding fee scale to qualifying families (income ≤ 195% federal poverty level, car seat class required). Details
Southwest Utah Public Health Department, Southern Utah: Car seats free/discounted after car seat installation course. Details

VERMONT Free Car Seats

Vermont Safety Seat Voucher Program, Statewide: Free car/booster seats for low-income families meeting program qualifications (primarily state/federal funds receipt). Details
Rescue Inc., Statewide: Pediatric Safe Organization, free car seats for qualified low-income families, free car seat inspections. Details
Lyndon Rescue, Statewide: Free car seat inspections/installation. Low-cost car/booster seats for income-eligible families meeting program qualifications (Vermont’s Child Passenger Safety Program). Details
Springfield Hospital, Springfield: Certified Passenger Safety Technician, installation/use assistance. Car seats for individuals in need (collaboration with VT Dept of Health/Governor’s Highway Safety Program). Details
Colchester Police Department, Colchester: Nationally qualified child passenger safety technicians, seat installation inspections. Assistance with free seat vouchers from VT Dept of Health. Details

VIRGINIA Free Car Seats

Virginia Department of Health Low Income Safety Seat Distribution and Education Program, Statewide: Promotes, acquires, and distributes free child safety seats to low-income families. Details
Fairfax County Health Department, Fairfax County: Car seat instruction/free car seat for income-eligible parents, foster parents, legal guardians (child ≤ 7 years old, pregnant women in 3rd trimester). Details
City of Norfolk’s Child Passenger Safety Program, Norfolk: Instruction, free child safety seats/booster seats for low-income families (3rd trimester to age 7). Details
City of Lynchburg, Lynchburg: Child Safety Seat Technicians (National Standardized Training Program). Program for low-income children. Details
Louisa County, Louisa County: VDH Division of Injury and Violence Prevention statewide Child Safety Seat Program, seat distribution and instruction for low-income families. Details

WASHINGTON Free Car Seats

Seattle Children’s Car Seat Program, Seattle: Car seats for patients/ER patients, families pay what they can towards wholesale cost. Details
Benton Franklin Health District, Benton Franklin: Safe Kids Benton Franklin, free car seat checks, car seats for low-income families meeting qualifications. Details
Babies In Need, Southwest WA: Works with social workers to help families get car seats and essentials. Details
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, Southwest WA: 1-hour car seat education class, limited free car seats for low-income families. Details
Eastside Baby Corner, Seattle and Surrounding Areas: Community organization serving families in need in Seattle area, car seats and essentials, partners including Afghan Health Initiative. Details and here
Two Hearts Pregnancy Aid, Washington: Car seat for any family in need meeting qualifications. Details
West Seattle Food Bank, Seattle: Partnership with Westside Baby, car seats ordered for qualifying families. Details and here

WASHINGTON D.C. Free Car Seats

The District Department of Transportation, Washington D.C.: Federally sponsored Child Safety Seat Program, education on child safety seat use. Infant/toddler seat, free booster seat, fitting/strapping information for District households. Collaboration: DDOT, MPD, DMV, Safe Kids Washington DC. Details

WEST VIRGINIA Free Car Seats

The Gabriel Project of West Virginia, Statewide: Assists families lacking financial means for infant needs, infant essentials including new cribs, new car seats, diapers, formula, clothing, hygiene products at no/low cost. Details
Motown Christian Help (Morgantown): Programs to support families, including car seats for those in need. Website.

WISCONSIN Free Car Seats

West Allis Health Department, West Allis: Low-cost car/booster seats for low-income families. More details
Injury Free Coalition for Kids (Milwaukee): Car seat safety program, car seats for families in need in Waco area. Website.
Clark County Health Department, Clark County: “Car Seats for Kids” program, free car seat checks, potential free car seat for some parents. Educational materials provided. More details
Brown County Public Health (Brown County): Car Seat Program, discounted car seats for qualifying families. Website.

WYOMING Free Car Seats

Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, Cheyenne: Partners with Kohls, Walmart, and retailers for free/discounted car seats. Call Injury Prevention Department at (307) 432-2679. Details
Teton County Car Seat Program, Teton County: Affordable car seats (supported by Kiwanis Club donations). $25 suggested donation. Cannot provide seats for second vehicles. Details

Conclusion: Prioritizing Child Passenger Safety with Accessible Car Seat Programs

Securing a safe car seat for your child is an essential aspect of responsible parenting. The availability of car seat for free programs across the United States is a testament to the commitment of numerous organizations to child passenger safety and family well-being.

This guide provides a comprehensive starting point for your search. Remember to:

Identify your needs: Determine the type of car seat required for your child’s age, weight, and height.
Check eligibility criteria: Carefully review the eligibility requirements for each program, often based on income, location, or participation in other assistance programs like WIC or Medicaid.
Contact programs directly: Reach out to the listed organizations in your state to inquire about their current program status, application process, and any required safety education classes.
Utilize inspection stations: Even if you obtain a car seat through other means, take advantage of free car seat inspection stations to ensure proper installation and maximize safety.

By utilizing these resources and actively seeking assistance, you can ensure your child travels safely without financial burden. Take action today to explore the car seat for free program options available in your state and prioritize your child’s safety on every journey.