Ensuring your child’s safety while traveling is paramount, and car seats are a critical component of that safety. However, the cost of car seats can be a significant burden for many families. Fortunately, numerous programs across the United States are dedicated to providing assistance with car seats, offering everything from free seats to educational resources. This guide will navigate you through the landscape of these programs, helping you find the support you need to keep your little ones safe on the road.
We will explore the various types of organizations that offer car seat assistance, including government agencies, non-profits, and healthcare providers. Understanding the types of programs available is the first step in accessing these valuable resources.
Exploring Different Types of Car Seat Assistance Programs
Navigating the options for car seat help can seem overwhelming. Understanding the different kinds of organizations involved can simplify your search. Many programs are available, each with potentially unique eligibility requirements and offerings. Here’s a breakdown of common program types:
State and Local Health Departments
Government-run health departments at the state and local levels often prioritize child safety and offer programs to assist families with car seats. These departments, such as the Texas Department of State Health Services or the California Department of Public Health, operate with the public’s health in mind and frequently address crucial safety issues like child passenger safety.
To find your local or state health department, a simple online search using your location and “health department” will usually lead you to their official website. You can also contact them directly via phone.
Eligibility for their car seat programs often prioritizes low-income families or those with demonstrated needs. However, some health departments offer programs that are open to all residents within their jurisdiction.
It’s crucial to remember that program availability and specific eligibility criteria are not uniform. They can vary significantly not just by state, but even within different counties of the same state. The most reliable way to get accurate information about programs in your area is to contact your local health department directly.
Many health department programs incorporate a safety education component, often requiring participants to complete a brief car seat safety course before they receive a car seat. This ensures that parents and caregivers are not only given a seat but also the knowledge to use it correctly.
Non-Profit Organizations
Non-profit organizations play a vital role in community support, and many focus on child safety by offering car seat assistance. These organizations operate independently of government funding and are driven by a mission to address social issues or advocate for specific causes. Well-known examples include Safe Kids Worldwide, United Way, Baby2Baby, and Buckle Up for Life.
Buckle Up for Life, for example, has made a significant impact by donating tens of thousands of car seats to low-income families. Many non-profits, like Buckle Up for Life, often integrate safety education into their programs, requiring or encouraging participation in safety classes as part of receiving a car seat.
Finding non-profit organizations that offer car seat programs is often straightforward through online searches. Websites like Charity Navigator can be valuable resources for verifying the legitimacy and mission of a non-profit organization before you reach out.
The service area and eligibility requirements of non-profits can vary. While some may serve a broad population, many focus their assistance on individuals who can demonstrate a specific need or who fall within particular income brackets.
Funding for non-profits heavily relies on donations and grants. This means that the availability of free car seats from these organizations can fluctuate based on their current funding status and donation levels. It’s always best to check with the organization directly to understand their current capacity to provide assistance.
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Programs
WIC is a federally funded program designed to support the health and well-being of low-income women, infants, and children. A core component of WIC is nutrition education and access to healthy foods, but the program also extends to other vital services, including car seat safety.
To find your local WIC agency, you can use online search engines or consult local government resources. Searching for “WIC program near me” or your county’s human services website is a good starting point.
WIC eligibility is generally based on income and specific categories: pregnant women, breastfeeding women, postpartum women, and children under the age of five. If you are already enrolled in WIC or believe you might qualify, you should inquire about car seat programs offered through your local agency.
Similar to health departments, WIC programs often incorporate a safety education component. Participants are frequently required to attend a car seat safety course to learn about proper installation and usage before receiving a car seat. This educational requirement ensures that WIC recipients are equipped with the knowledge to use their car seats effectively.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state government program that provides health coverage to millions of Americans, including many low-income individuals and families. Given its focus on healthcare access for vulnerable populations, Medicaid can also be a resource for obtaining car seat assistance.
To apply for Medicaid, you can visit the Health Insurance Marketplace website, healthcare.gov, or directly access your state’s Medicaid website. Each state manages its Medicaid program, so the specific application process and eligibility rules are state-specific.
Medicaid eligibility is primarily based on income level, but it also extends to certain categories of individuals, such as low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. If you are eligible for Medicaid, you may also be eligible for car seat assistance through the program or related initiatives.
Like other assistance programs, Medicaid-related car seat programs often include a safety education component. Recipients may be required to complete a short safety course to ensure they understand how to properly install and use the car seat they receive.
Insurance Companies
While not always the first place families think of, some insurance companies are beginning to recognize the importance of car seat safety and offer car seat benefits to their policyholders. These companies, ranging from large national providers like State Farm and Allstate to regional and local insurers, are increasingly incorporating preventative safety measures into their policies.
To check if your current insurance provider offers car seat benefits, the best approach is to visit their official website or contact their customer service department directly. If you are shopping for new insurance, comparing benefits across different providers can be insightful, and you can use online comparison tools to get an overview of various insurance offerings.
Car seat benefits from insurance companies are typically targeted towards their policyholders. However, the specifics can vary widely depending on the insurance policy and the provider. Some insurance companies offer free car seats specifically to new mothers or pregnant women who are insured under their plans.
The availability of free car seats as an insurance benefit is often a specific part of certain policies. It’s essential to carefully review your insurance policy documents or speak directly with an insurance agent to get accurate and up-to-date information about car seat benefits. Don’t assume that car seat assistance is automatically included; confirm the specifics of your plan.
State Car Seat Inspection Stations
State car seat inspection stations are physical locations where certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) offer crucial services to the public. These stations are often located at easily accessible community points like firehouses, sheriff departments, and health centers. Examples include your local fire station, police department, or even community health clinics.
To locate inspection stations in your area, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides a helpful Child Car Seat Inspection Station Locator on their website, safercar.gov. Alternatively, a simple online search using your city or county name along with “car seat inspection station” can yield local resources.
Inspection stations serve the general public, offering a valuable community service focused on child passenger safety. While their primary function is to inspect car seat installations for correctness and safety, some stations also have access to resources for families in need, including, in some cases, free car seats.
It’s important to note that not all inspection stations are equipped to provide free car seats directly. The availability of seats often depends on partnerships with local charities or grant funding. Therefore, it’s always advisable to call the inspection station in advance to inquire whether they offer free car seats or know of local programs that do.
Even if an inspection station doesn’t directly provide free seats, the CPSTs at these locations are often knowledgeable about local charities and organizations that do. They can be a valuable resource for connecting you with programs that can offer new car seats for free or at reduced cost. Many stations also offer free car seat installation services, regardless of whether they provide free seats, ensuring that all families have access to correct installation guidance.
Local Churches
Local churches, as community-based religious institutions, frequently extend their outreach to support families in need within their congregations and surrounding communities. Many churches operate community outreach programs as part of their mission, and these programs can sometimes include assistance with essential items like car seats.
Finding local churches is usually easy. Online searches using your location and “churches” or “church directory” will provide listings. Local directories and community bulletin boards can also be helpful resources.
While churches are generally open to serving community members, their resources and specific programs can vary widely. Some churches may have direct programs for providing car seats, while others may act as connectors, linking individuals with other charities or organizations that offer the specific assistance needed.
The availability of resources at local churches can fluctuate depending on the church’s size, community involvement, and current donations. It’s best to reach out to local churches directly to inquire about their assistance programs and whether they can help with car seats or direct you to relevant resources.
Pregnancy Life Centers
Pregnancy Life Centers are typically non-profit organizations that focus on providing support and resources to women during pregnancy and early parenthood. These centers offer a range of services, from counseling and education to material aid. For families needing car seat assistance, Pregnancy Life Centers can be a valuable resource.
To locate a Pregnancy Life Center in your area, you can perform an online search specifying your local area along with terms like “pregnancy resource center” or “pregnancy help center.” Some well-known national networks of pregnancy centers include Care Net and Heartbeat International, which can be starting points for finding local affiliates. Additionally, many independent centers operate at the local level.
Pregnancy Life Centers primarily serve women who are pregnant or who have recently given birth. Their aim is to support women through their pregnancy journey and into the early years of raising their children. This support often includes providing essential items, and many centers recognize the critical need for car seat safety.
Resources at Pregnancy Life Centers are often offered as part of broader programs. Many centers require or encourage expectant mothers to participate in parenting or childbirth classes to access certain forms of aid. Items like car seats may be offered to mothers who enroll in and attend these classes. The specific requirements and items provided can vary from center to center, so direct contact is essential to understand what is available and how to qualify.
Funding for Pregnancy Life Centers typically comes from donations and community support. As such, the availability of specific items like car seats can vary based on current donations and center resources. It’s always best to inquire directly about the availability of car seats and any associated requirements.
Hospitals and Health Care Systems
Hospitals and larger health care systems are increasingly recognizing their role in community health beyond just treating illness. Many hospitals offer community outreach programs, including those focused on preventative care and safety, and car seat assistance can be part of these initiatives. Examples of hospitals and systems that may be involved include Kaiser Permanente, Mayo Clinic, and Johns Hopkins Hospital, as well as local and regional hospitals.
To find out if hospitals or health care systems in your area offer car seat programs, you can check their websites or contact their patient services or community outreach departments. Local directories of hospitals and healthcare providers can also be helpful.
Hospital-based car seat programs often focus on serving pregnant women, new parents, and families with young children who are patients within their system. This means that program eligibility might be tied to being a patient of the hospital or health system.
Hospitals may offer free car seats directly, or they may act as a referral point, directing families to other community resources that can provide car seat assistance. Some hospitals partner with local organizations or participate in state or national programs to distribute car seats.
It’s important to note that not all hospitals or health care systems offer car seat programs. The availability of these services varies based on the hospital’s community health priorities and resources. Directly contacting the hospital or health care system is the best way to get information about any car seat programs they may offer.
State-by-State Guide to Free Car Seats and Assistance Programs
Finding car seat assistance can be localized. To make your search easier, we’ve compiled a state-by-state guide. This section provides specific resources and links for each state, allowing you to focus your search on programs available in your area. Please note that program availability and details can change, so always verify information directly with the listed organizations.
ALABAMA Free Car Seats
Alabama Department of Public Health (Statewide): Provides car seat assistance to expectant mothers and parents receiving federal benefits like WIC, AllKids, Food Stamps, or Medicaid. Monthly car seat clinics are held in Montgomery, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and Huntsville. Appointments are required and often booked in advance. For more details, visit their website.
Alabama Farmers Federation (Statewide): Offers low-cost car seats and booster seats to members. Order forms are available at local Alfa offices. Prices include shipping and handling: Cosco Scenera NEXT Convertible Seat and Cosco Finale 2-in-1 Booster for $40 each, Cosco Pronto Belt-Positioning Booster for $30. More information on their website.
Children’s of Alabama, (Birmingham): Provides free car seats to patients discharged without one. Families must watch a brief educational video on correct car seat usage. Learn more about the Children’s of Alabama car seat safety program
Baby’s Bounty (Montgomery): Serves the Montgomery area, offering essential newborn items, including car seats, to families in need. Find out more about Baby’s Bounty
ALASKA Free Car Seats
Safe Alaskans (Anchorage): Provides car seats for families in need, suggesting a $10 donation for booster seats and $35 for car seats. website
Community Pregnancy Center (Anchorage): Offers Life Lessons classes where participants can earn “Baby Bucks” to use in their Mini Depot for car seats and other necessities. website.
Mat-Su Services for Children and Adults (Wasilla): Offers car seats at reduced cost based on a sliding scale to all families. website.
Alaska Injury Prevention Center (Anchorage): Limited number of car seats and booster seats available for a small donation. website.
Alaska Child Passenger Safety Coalition (Statewide): Lists events with free car seats and booster seats on their calendar. event calendar
Fairbanks Safe Rider Program (Fairbanks): May have car seats or booster seats, contact for details. website.
Juneau Police (Juneau): Offers inspections by appointment and replacement seats for a minimum fee if needed. website.
Alaska DOT (Statewide): Maintains a resource page for free car seat information. website
ARIZONA Free Car Seats
Children Are Priceless Passengers (Statewide): Operates in nine locations statewide. $35 fee for safety class; new car seats provided free to those lacking a safe seat. website.
Phoenix Children’s Hospital (Phoenix): Car seat distribution program. road safety programs page.
Yavapai Regional Medical Center (Prescott): Free or discounted car seats in conjunction with a safety class. Call (928) 771-5651 or visit their website.
Deer Valley Unified School District Child Car Seat Safety Program (Phoenix): Limited free car seats alongside an education class. website
Tuscon Medical Center Car Seat Loaner Program (Tucson): $40 for one-month car seat loan. Car seat giveaway events sponsored by Safe Kids Pima County. website.
HealthLinks Car Seat Program (Phoenix): Free car seat to qualified individuals who complete a two-hour class. details here.
ARKANSAS Free Car Seats
Farm Bureau Federation (Statewide): Members with Farm Bureau Insurance of Arkansas auto, home, life, farm, or other insurance are eligible for the Infant Car Seat Program. Car safety seats as low as $15 (including shipping and handling). website.
Rogers Police Department Car Seat Loan Program (Rogers): Loans one car seat per family experiencing financial hardship. Distribution Wednesdays 9 am – 3 pm. Car seat installation service also offered. Find out more about Rogers Police Department’s car seat program
CALIFORNIA Free Car Seats
Related Reading: Free Car Seats in California (by county, larger list)
California Office of Traffic Safety (Statewide): County-based directory of resources for car seat education and distribution. website.
Police Departments & California Highway Patrol Offices (Statewide): Free exchange for expired car seats at many locations. More information.
OC Health (Orange County): List of organizations offering car seat education and free/low-cost car seats in Orange County. Detailed information.
First 5 LA (Los Angeles County): New Economics for Women’s Child Passenger Safety Program offers free car seats to qualified individuals completing their safety class. website.
Clinic in the Park’s Boosters in a Bag (Orange County): Free booster seat after completing an online course. details.
Pacific Safety Center (San Diego County): Free car seats to 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 upon online class completion. 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 by appointment. details.
CHOC Child Safety Seat Distribution Program (Orange County): $30 car seats for CHOC patients after safety class completion. website.
Camarena Health (Madera County): Free car seat upon demonstrating knowledge gained from car seat safety classes. details.
Family Health Centers of San Diego (San Diego County): Free car seats for patients enrolled in the Prenatal program. website.
Venice Family Clinic (Los Angeles County): Monthly car seat safety classes with free car seats for low-income families at multiple locations. website.
St. Mary’s Medical Center (Los Angeles County): Welcome Baby program referrals to free or low-cost baby essentials, including car seats. website.
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (Los Angeles County): Bi-monthly car seat safety classes and free car seats for families receiving public assistance. details.
St Francis Medical Center (Los Angeles County): Free car seats to eligible families upon class completion. details.
East Valley Community Health Center (Los Angeles County): Free virtual car seat safety class with free car seats for qualified families. details.
Whittier Hospital (Los Angeles County): Complimentary rear-facing car seat and diaper bag for moms delivering at the hospital. 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 offers free car seats for low-income, active military, or refugee women (8+ months pregnant) and families with children up to age 9. details.
Shasta County Health and Human Services (Shasta County): Free car seat for pregnant moms attending 3 classes and meeting other qualifications. details.
Plumas County Public Health Agency (Plumas County): Free car seats to eligible families upon education and installation by a certified technician. details.
Colusa County Family Action Centers (Colusa County): Classes for $20, families may qualify for a free car seat. details.
Merced County Public Health (Merced County): $25 car seat class.
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 for voucher program details.
Custer County Program (Custer County): Contact Terra Raye (719-783-9451 or 719-371-3046 or [email protected]) for car seat resources, prioritizes county residents who qualify. Custer County details.
Montezuma County Car Seat Program: Certified technicians ensure correct car seat fitting and usage education. Reduced-cost car seats. Learn more about Montezuma County’s Car Seat Program
CONNECTICUT Free Car Seats
St. Gianna Pregnancy Resource Center: Maternity and baby items, including car seats, 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 a request narrative. Southington Police Department’s Facebook page.
Carolyn’s Place Pregnancy Care Center: “Earn While You Learn Classes” for first-time parents. Upon course completion, clients may receive baby care items, including car seats. website.
DELAWARE Free Car Seats
Delaware Opportunities Inc. (Statewide): Free car seats and installation instruction for income-qualified families in Delaware. website.
Delaware Division of Public Health (Statewide): Collaborates with local organizations for car seat inspection stations. Certified technicians perform inspections and provide free car seats. Event dates on their calendar.
FLORIDA Free Car Seats
Florida Department of Transportation Safety Office (Statewide): Sponsors car seat purchase and distribution to trained CPS instructors and 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 three 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 provides reduced-cost child safety seats to those in need. More details.
Florida Health Pinellas (Pinellas County): Workshops on safety seat usage. Low-cost safety seats for those meeting financial requirements. website.
Mothers Helping Mothers (Sarasota, Manatee, and surrounding counties): Non-profit providing necessities including car seats to families in need. website.
St. Johns County Tax Collector – Project Buckle Up: Free car seats and education on correct installation and usage. Project Buckle Up
Wolfson Children’s Hospital Car Safety Program: Low-cost car seat workshop with reduced-cost car seats and safety education. Low-cost Car Seat Workshop
GEORGIA Free Car Seats
Child Occupant Safety Project (Statewide): Child safety seats and information on correct installation and use through the Mini Grant Program. Collaborates with community partners. More information.
South Health District Car Seat Program (Valdosta, Lowndes County): Child safety seats to low-income families in need. website.
District 4 Public Health (Troup County and eight other counties): Free booster seats and safety training to financially eligible families via Child Passenger Safety Mini-Grant. More details.
Safe Kids Cherokee County (Cherokee County): Up to ten car seats and education to financially qualified families via mini-grant. More information.
Safe Kids North Fulton (North Fulton County): Child seat education and free child seats to qualifying families via Mini Grant. More details.
Northeast Georgia Health System (Northeast Georgia): Car Seat Safety Class with Car Seat Distribution. Discounted car seat upon class attendance. website
Women’s Enrichment Center of Dalton (Calhoun, Gordon County): Car Seat Education Class with free car seats for each child. More details.
Bartow County Fire & Emergency Services (Bartow County): Car seat checks, installations, and 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 details. Safe Kids Program
Safe Kids Cobb County: Injury prevention among children, including car seat safety. Contact directly for car seat assistance info. Safe Kids Cobb County
HAWAII Free Car Seats
Statewide: $25 tax credit per year for booster or child safety seat purchase. More information.
Kapi’olani Medical Center for Women & Children (Oahu): Potentially free car seats and education with Farmers Insurance Hawaii partnership. Contact Car Seat Check office for inquiries. website and here.
Aloha Pregnancy Center (Oahu): Baby & Me Boutique stocked with car seats and high chairs for families in need. website.
Keiki Closet (Oahu): Partners with LIV center to provide baby essentials including car seats. website.
Malama Pregnancy Center of Maui (Maui): Material assistance, potentially including 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, and limited free seats based on donations for qualified individuals. details.
Safe Kids USA (Statewide): Contact districts for free or 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 car seats and booster seats)
- 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. details.
Buckle Up Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Program (Chicago, Cook County): Car seat information, installation assistance, and reduced-cost car seats to at-risk families through seminars, inspection stations, and community partners. More information.
CountyCare (Cook County): Free car seats to expectant parents. details.
Fair Hope (Vermilion County): Car seats for families WITHOUT a vehicle for children 5-40 pounds. details.
Safe Kids Coalition (Statewide): Safe car seat events, instruction, inspection, and potentially free or low-cost car seats. 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 providing assistance to families in need, including car seats. Auxiliary Stroger Hospital Community Programs
Grant A Wish Inc. Chicago: Baby Program providing essentials including car seats to parents in need. Grant A Wish Inc. Baby Program
INDIANA Free Car Seats
Community Health Network (Marion County): Free car seats to parents in need. details.
Gear-Up for Safety Program (Statewide): Safety equipment including car seats for child-safe homes. details.
Project L.O.V.E. (Statewide): Law enforcement program educating on car seat use and installation; free car seats to low-income Indiana residents. More information.
Franciscan Health Car Seat Safety Clinics (Tippecanoe County): Free car seats for families in need at clinics (reservations and eligibility required). details.
Indiana University School of Medicine (Marion County): Partnership with Go Insurance providing free car seats as part of kid passenger safety initiative. details.
Spencer County Car Seat Program: Car seat 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, may provide free convertible, combination, and booster seats to families in need (no baby carriers). More information.
Johnson County Empowerment/ECIA, Johnson County: Car Seat Events for safety checks and free seats to kids in need (damaged, expired, or none). More information.
Jones County Public Health, Jones County: Car seats and booster seats for families needing safe child transportation. More information.
Stork’s Nest in Polk County, Iowa: Incentive-based program providing baby items (diapers, strollers, cribs, car seats) to low-income new/expecting mothers. Call (515) 558-9950 or visit here.
University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital Safety Store: Discounted car seats and safety products. Education included with purchase. website
Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa: Free car seats to families in need via “Kids on the Go!” program. document.
KANSAS Free Car Seats
Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office, Statewide: Program seats for eligible families showing proof of eWIC card, KanCare Health Plans, Vision Card, or Kansas Farm Worker Health Program. Car seats for pregnant women 30 days before due date, and replacement seats under certain conditions. More information.
Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) and North Kansas City Fire Department, North Kansas City: Federal grant to provide car seats to low-income families through MARC and Head Start program. Income restrictions apply. More information.
Swope Health (Kansas City): Free car seat giveaway events celebrating moms and healthy babies. More information.
Baby Talk ICT (Wichita): Car seat safety classes, potential free car seats for families in need. website.
Injury Free Coalition for Kids (Kansas City): Car seat safety program, potentially offering car seats to families in need. website.
KENTUCKY Free Car Seats
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Statewide: Child safety seat and booster seat inspections, sometimes free car seats to families in need. official website.
Hardin County Health Department, Hardin County: Car seat program providing car seats to families in need. Educational video and technician installation required. website.
Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness, Louisville: Child safety seat checkups and free car seats to individuals in need meeting criteria. website.
Jessamine County Health Department, Jessamine County: HANDS program provides education, resources, and free car seats to parents in need. HANDS program participation and safety class required. Jessamine County Health Department’s website.
Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, Lexington-Fayette County: Car seats to eligible families and car seat inspections. website.
LOUISIANA Free Car Seats
Councilman Free Car Seat Program, Baton Rouge: Free car seats to qualifying parents receiving WIC and/or SNAP assistance. Preregistration required. official news page.
University Medical Center New Orleans, Statewide: Free car seats for families in need throughout Louisiana through injury prevention program. Sign up on their website.
MAINE Free Car Seats
Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, Statewide: Free car seats to qualifying Maine families. Contact directly to check child eligibility. More details.
KVCAP Child & Family Services Department, Statewide: Two distribution stations for Maine Bureau of Highway Safety’s car seat 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 through Maine Bureau of Highway Safety program. Conditions apply. services.
Southern Kennebec Child Development Corporation, Kennebec County: Collaborates with Bureau of Highway Safety for car seat education and distribution. Eligible families can schedule appointment with certified technician for car seat. official website.
MARYLAND Free Car Seats
Safe Kids Frederick County, Frederick County: Free car seats to Frederick County residents. Prevents unintentional injuries to children under 19. official webpage.
Maryland Department of Health’s Kids In Safety Seats, Statewide: Low-cost car and booster seats to families unable to 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 to qualifying entities for distribution to needy families. Prevents child passenger injuries and fatalities. 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: Bi-monthly car seat check-up events. Instruction on booster and car seat use/installation. Car seats and booster seats for families in need. official webpage.
UMass Amherst Police Department, Amherst: Grant-funded car seats for parents in need. CPS trained installers check for recalls and correct installation. Contact Officer Brian Kellogg. here.
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 at regional seat check events and fitting stations for low-income families. more details.
Family Futures, Kent County: Medicaid-enrolled parents in Kent County eligible, income-eligible may also qualify. More information.
Kids Always Ride Safe (KARS), Houghton and Keweenaw Counties: Car seat education program and low-cost car seat alternative for families in Houghton and Keweenaw Counties, including WIC families. website.
Maternal Infant Health Program, Statewide: Free car seats for Medicaid recipients, discounted car seats for families with economic hardships. service here.
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 to families in need, funded by multiple sources. initiative here.
The Baby Blanket (Michigan): Crib & Car Seat Program for families in need. website.
Sherburne County Public Health, Sherburne County: Car seats for income-eligible Sherburne County residents. WIC, Medical aid, or Medica PMAP program participants automatically qualify. initiative here.
Every Day Miracles, Statewide: Donates car seats to families with Medical Assistance health coverage. Reserve spot here.
Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Scott County: Car seats to uninsured and low-income families when available. More information.
Renville County Public Health, Renville County: Free car seat class to Renville County residents. Car seats accessible for PrimeWest, Blue Plus, and other eligible groups. service on webpage.
Norman-Mahnomen Public Health Department, Norman-Mahnomen Counties: Free car seats to MinnesotaCare and Medical Assistance participants. Guidance on child safety restraints. webpage.
Vadnais Heights City (Statewide): Car Seat Program offers safety checks and car seats to families in need. website
Mille Lacs County Community Health (Minnesota): Car seat safety checks and assistance obtaining car seats. website or contact Public Health: 320-983-8208, Toll-Free: 888-270-8208.
Carver County Public Health (Minnesota): Child Passenger Safety Program offers car seat installation checks and low-cost car seats to eligible families. website.
MISSISSIPPI Free Car Seats
Mississippi State Department of Health, Statewide: Free infant or convertible child safety seats to eligible Mississippi children. Assessment form here.
Farm Bureau Mississippi, Statewide: Child Saver Program offers members reduced-cost car seats and booster seats. webpage.
MISSOURI Free Car Seats
Platte County Buckle Up Kids Car Seat Program, Platte County: Free car seats to eligible Platte County residents meeting income requirements. service here.
SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Safety Program, Statewide: Free car seats for children under one with parent instruction. Local partners for car seats for older children. More information.
Cass County Health Department, Cass County: Free car seat safety workshops for families needing car or booster seats. website.
Henry County Health Center, Henry County: Car seats for low-income families. official website.
Lebanon Missouri Child Seat Safety Program, Lebanon: Car seats giveaway program for those in need. initiative here.
Lawrence County Health Department (Lawrence County): Car seat program providing education, installation assistance, and low-cost or free car seats. website.
Safe Kids Columbia, Columbia: Community initiative providing free car seats to those in need. service here.
Callaway County Ambulance District, Callaway County: Partnership with SERVE, Inc. and Safe Kids Columbia. Application for voucher at SERVE, Inc. required for free car seat. initiative here.
MONTANA Free Car Seats
Missoula County, Missoula County: Car seat vouchers for public assistance recipients on first-come, first-serve basis. website.
Greater Gallatin Safety Commission, Bozeman area: Free car seats for families in need. service here.
SafeSeat for Baby, Statewide: Referrals for free car seats and training must come from public health department or social service organization. webpage.
Safer Start Montana, Statewide: Car seats for families in need who apply online. website.
Ravalli County, Ravalli County: Car seats for families in need by appointment only. initiative here.
Safe Kids Yellowstone County, Yellowstone County: Car seat assistance when available, reduced-cost program, potential free seats for qualified individuals under grants. Appointment for car seat check required. details.
NEBRASKA Free Car Seats
Safe Kids South Central at Mary Lanning Healthcare, Hastings: Lower-priced car seats for Medicaid, Kids Connection, or WIC recipients. website.
Three Rivers Public Health Department (Dodge, Saunders, and Washington counties): Partnership with Safe Kids, child car seats for eligible families unable to afford new ones. website
NEVADA Free Car Seats
Ron Wood Family Resource Center, Carson City: Discounted car seats when available. resource here.
NyECC Child Car Seat Inspections & Installation, Nye County: Certified technicians inspect and install 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. mission here.
Baby’s Bounty, Statewide: Car seats and baby essentials to families meeting 130% of 2020 US Federal Poverty Guidelines. program requirements here.
NEW HAMPSHIRE Free Car Seats
Amerihealth New Hampshire: Free car seats and booster seats for Amerihealth NH child members, up to $129 value. Amerihealth NH benefits here
WellSense: Free infant seat (once per lifetime per child member 5-65 lbs) and booster seat (ages 4-8 to replace infant seat) for WellSense NH MassHealth ACO or MCO members. Pregnant mothers can request 45 days prior to due date. Call WellSense Member Services. WellSense program here
New Hampshire Right to Life (Statewide): Supports pregnancy centers providing necessary baby items including car seats. Support Pregnancy Centers page.
NEW JERSEY Free Car Seats
Burlington County Child Safety Seat Inspection Program: Free child safety seats for expecting families or families with infants in Burlington County who cannot afford one. Application and proof of income required. Burlington County program details here
Ride of My Life: Charity providing car seats to mothers in NJ hospitals who cannot afford them to take newborns home. Hospitals encouraged to contact for maternity patients in need. Ride of My Life initiative herecharity’s outreach here
NEW MEXICO Free Car Seats
New Mexico Child Safety Seat Distribution Program, Statewide: 40 distribution stations statewide. Application criteria vary, most require proof of WIC, Medicaid, or New Mexi-Kids. $25 cash only. 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. Learn more here.
Wayne County Public Health Child Safety Programs’ Car Seat Distribution Class, Wayne County: Potential free car seats for those unable to afford one and attending class. Valid photo ID, proof of public assistance, and Wayne County residency required. Details here.
Onondaga County Car Seat Program, Onondaga County: Free car seats sponsored by Catholic Charities of Onondaga County (call for poverty-based eligibility requirements). 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 including car seat assistance. website.
Cornell Cooperative Extension (Livingston County): Traffic Safety Education program including child safety seats education. website.
NORTH CAROLINA Free Car Seats
Child Passenger Safety program, Henderson County: Education and free car seats for Henderson County homeowners lacking 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 to families in need. website for more information.
NORTH DAKOTA Free Car Seats
North Dakota Car Seat Distribution, Statewide: State program by ND Dept of Health and ND Dept of Transportation. 25+ distribution locations. Find a location here.
First District Health Unit Car Seat Distribution Program, Ward County: Discounted car seats for all families. Further discount for public assistance recipients (WIC, SNAP, Medicaid, etc). By 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): Car seat 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 seats and booster seats to qualified low-income families in all Ohio counties. Instructional session by licensed technician required. Convertible Seat ($20 donation) & Booster Seat ($10 donation). program here.
Columbus Public Health Car Seat Program, Columbus: Discounted car seats and booster seats for families in need referred by WIC clinic or Columbus Public Health Home Visiting program. Convertible car seat $30, booster seat $10. 60–90 minute lesson required. details.
Akron Children’s Hospital Car Seat Program, Akron: Reduced-cost brand new car seats to low-income families (government assistance recipients). Education on seat use and installation provided. Occasional free seats from ODH. Read more here.
Lorain County Car Seat Program, Lorain County: Education and car/booster seats to qualified individuals in Lorain County. WIC or SNAP eligible, 30-minute info session. details.
Tuscarawas County Health Department Car Seat Program, Tuscarawas County: Certified car seat technicians. WIC Income Eligible children may receive car seat every three years (class and quiz required). details.
Putnam County Health Department Car Seat Program, Putnam County: Free car seats to Putnam County residents meeting WIC Income Guidelines or income eligible for WIC. Learn more here.
Warren County Health District Car Seat Program, Warren County: Free car seats. WIC income limits, but WIC registration not required. Child meeting car/booster seat requirements, educational class required. More details.
Knox Public Health Car Seat Program, Knox County: Convertible and booster seats to low-income families in collaboration with Ohio Buckles Buckeyes. $10 charge suggested for class. details.
Belmont County Health Department Car Seat Program, Belmont County: Free car seats to eligible families. WIC eligibility verification required (paystubs, WIC card, Medicaid card, W2s/tax transcript, unemployment benefits). details.
Lake County General Health District (LCGHD) Car Seat Program, Lake County: Car seats to income-eligible families with University Hospitals and Ohio Buckles Buckeyes (OBB) collaboration. Instructional class required. Learn more here.
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 or booster seat. Infant car seats for families receiving Job and Family Services assistance. details.
OKLAHOMA Free Car Seats
SPARC Car Seats: Single Parent Academic Resources Collaborative, Oklahoma City: First-come, first-served policy. Local car seat events listed online (some free or low fee). Details here
Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, Injury Prevention Service, Safe Kids Oklahoma, Statewide: Car/booster seat program through county health departments. Free car seats/booster seats for WIC, Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF recipients. Details here
Bethany Children’s Health Center, Bethany: Inexpensive car seats for eligible individuals. Details here
Infant Crisis Services, Oklahoma City: Supplies like car seats, diapers, blankets, baby clothes, formula, and other essentials to those in need. Details here
Muskogee County Emergency Medical Service, Muskogee County: Kirschner Trusts grant for car seats for low-income families in Muskogee County. Details here
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. WIC discounts available (education required). Details here
Oregon Building Healthy Families, Wallowa County: Car seats with class on sliding scale payment basis. Details here
Bambinos Oregon, Polk County: $15 deposit car seats for current Bambinos clients in Polk County (education given). Details here
Care Inc, Tillamook County: Low-cost car seats (case-by-case basis) and essentials for Tillamook County residents. Details here
Legacy Health, Portland: Car seat safety class with no/low-cost car seats (availability dependent). Details here
Multnomah County Healthy Birth Initiative, Multnomah County: Discounted car seats for Black or African American families in Multnomah County. Details here
Doernbacher Children’s Hospital, Portland: Works with ODOT to check family eligibility for car seat distribution program. Details here
Safe Kids Lower Columbia, Columbia County: Interactive car seat program with one-on-one instruction, $50 Visa gift card (for appointment keeping), and free car seat if needed. Details here
Salem Right to Life Center, Salem: Earn Baby Bucks for a new car seat by taking five parenting classes. Details here
Umatilla-Morrow Head Start, Inc, Umatilla & Morrow Counties: Reduced-cost car seats for low-income families in/near Hermiston and Pendleton. Convertible seats $30, high-back boosters $20, no-back boosters $10. Details here
Vine Medical Pregnancy Health Clinic: New car seat by participating in educational programs. Details here, Educational Resources
City of Albany, Albany: Low-cost seats for income-eligible families in Linn and Benton counties. Referral from Love, Inc. or WIC for WIC-eligible families.
PENNSYLVANIA Free Car Seats
Tri-County Community Action, Dauphin County: Discounted car seat program in collaboration with SAFE KIDS in Dauphin County through Penn State Children’s Hospital for referred families or public assistance recipients. Safety checks available. Details here
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia: Free car seats through CHOP Child Safety Seat Program. Healthcare professional referral required for those unable to afford a car seat, actively receiving public assistance with green EBT Access card. Details here
Pennsylvania Traffic Injury Prevention Project’s Car Seat Loan Program, Statewide: Free car seats available at locations statewide. Details here
Central Pennsylvania Community Action, Central Pennsylvania: Car seat loaner program for those unable to afford car seats for infants/toddlers. In collaboration with PennDOT and PA Traffic Injury Prevention Project. Income level at 150% poverty line or less. Details here
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 here
Sites for car seat checks in Rhode Island listed. Details here
Seats 4 Safety Program at Lifespan (Statewide): Car seat inspections and potential free car seats for eligible families unable to afford them. website.
SOUTH CAROLINA Free Car Seats
Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital, Midlands: Medicaid discount program via Buckle Buddies program. Discounted car seats at Palmetto Health Baptist’s Birthplace ($10 discount per car seat, $65 for regular, $35 for convertible). Contact: Prisma Health Baptist Hospital, (803) 296-5437.
Molina Healthcare of South Carolina: Free car seat program for eligible members completing 6 prenatal visits. Email details to [email protected] (“Car Seat” subject) with full name, mailing address, phone number, and Molina ID. Car seat types may vary. More details here
SOUTH DAKOTA Free Car Seats
South Dakota Department of Social Services, Statewide: Child Safety Seat Distribution Program. Free child safety seats for income-eligible families until child is 4’9″. Details here
Sanford Children’s CHILD Services, Statewide: Child Safety Seat Distribution Program. Free child safety seats for income-eligible families until child is 4’9″. Details here
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, Statewide: Free car seats in collaboration with SD Department of Social Services for parents meeting financial assistance program requirements (Medicaid, WIC, SNAP, CHIP, Child Care Assistance, or Head Start) and SD residency. Details here
TENNESSEE Free Car Seats
Shelby County Health Department Child Car Seat Program, Shelby County: Free convertible car seats to Shelby County residents with children under 2 meeting eligibility requirements. Details here
Mother To Mother (Nashville): Non-profit providing health, safety, and wellness items for infants/children in need, programs may help acquire car seats. website.
TEXAS Free Car Seats
Texas Health and Human Services, Statewide: Safe Riders initiative educates about child passenger safety and distributes child safety seats to low-income families via distribution stations. Details here
Denton County Public Health, Denton County: Safe Riders initiative, car seat distribution and education. Car seats for eligible families attending course. Self-certified financial need, working safety belt vehicle, one-hour session required. Monthly classes. Details here
St. John’s Community Center, Travis County: Free car seat program for low-income families. Car seat safety course required. Details here
Living Alternatives of Jacksonville, Jacksonville: Potential free child car seats for low-income pregnant mothers or mothers with small children. State of Texas Safe-Riders Program distributor. Details here
UMC Foundation El Paso (El Paso): Car Seat Safety Program provides car seats to families unable to afford them. website
Families to Freedom (Dallas): Car seat program for families in need, ensuring safe child transport. website.
UTAH Free Car Seats
Salt Lake County Health Department, Salt Lake County: New car seats to qualifying families on sliding fee scale. Car seat class and proof of income (at or below 195% federal poverty level) required. Details here
Tooele County Health Department, Tooele County: Low-cost car seats to qualifying families. Free car seat education classes first Wednesday of every month. Details here
Weber-Morgan Health Department, Weber County: New car seats on sliding fee scale to qualifying families. Car seat class and proof of income (at or below 195% federal poverty level) required. Details here
Southwest Utah Public Health Department, Southern Utah: Free or discounted car seats after car seat installation course. Details here
VERMONT Free Car Seats
Vermont Safety Seat Voucher Program, Statewide: Free car seats and booster seats to low-income families meeting program qualifications (state or federal funds receipt). Details here
Rescue Inc., Statewide: Pediatric Safe Organization. Free car seats to qualified low-income families and free car seat inspections. Details here
Lyndon Rescue, Statewide: Free child safety seat inspections and installation. Low-cost car seats and booster seats to income-eligible families meeting program qualifications. Details here
Springfield Hospital, Springfield: Nationally Certified Passenger Safety Technician for car seat installation and use assistance. Collaborates with VT Department of Health and VT Governor’s Highway Safety Program to supply car seats to individuals in need. Details here
Colchester Police Department, Colchester: Nationally qualified child passenger safety technicians for car seat installation inspections. Assistance with free seat vouchers from VT Department of Health. Details here
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 here
Fairfax County Health Department, Fairfax County: Car seat instruction and free car seat to income-eligible parents, foster parents, legal guardians (child aged 7 or younger), and pregnant women (third trimester). Details here
City of Norfolk’s Child Passenger Safety Program, Norfolk: Free child safety seats and booster seats and instruction to low-income families (third trimester of pregnancy through age 7). Details here
City of Lynchburg, Lynchburg: Child Safety Seat Technicians (National Standardized Child Passenger Safety Training Program completed). Program for low-income children. Details here
Louisa County, Louisa County: Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Division of Injury and Violence Prevention’s statewide Child Safety Seat Program provides seat distribution and instruction to low-income families. Details here
WASHINGTON Free Car Seats
Seattle Children’s Car Seat Program, Seattle: Car seats for patients or ER patients, families pay what they can towards wholesale cost. Details here
Benton Franklin Health District, Benton Franklin: Safe Kids Benton Franklin offers free car seat checks and car seats for qualified low-income families. Details here
Babies In Need, Southwest WA: Works with social workers to help families get car seats and essentials. Details here
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, Southwest WA: One-hour car seat education class, limited free car seats for low income families. Details here
Eastside Baby Corner, Seattle and Surrounding Areas: Community organization serving families in need, car seats and baby essentials, partners including Afghan Health Initiative. Details here and here
Two Hearts Pregnancy Aid, Washington: Car seats for any qualified family in need. Details here
West Seattle Food Bank, Seattle: Partnership with Westside Baby, car seats ordered for qualifying families. Details here and here
WASHINGTON D.C. Free Car Seats
The District Department of Transportation, Washington D.C.: Federally sponsored Child Safety Seat Program, educates parents/caregivers on child safety seats. Free infant/toddler seat or booster seat and fitting/strapping information to District households. Collaboration between DDOT, MPD, DMV, and Safe Kids Washington DC. Details here
WEST VIRGINIA Free Car Seats
The Gabriel Project of West Virginia, Statewide: Assists families lacking financial means for new infant needs. Supplies infant essentials including new car seats, cribs, diapers, formula, clothing, hygiene products at no or low cost. Details here
Motown Christian Help (Morgantown): Programs supporting families, including car seats to those in need. website.
WISCONSIN Free Car Seats
West Allis Health Department, West Allis: Low-cost car or booster seats to low-income families. More details here
Injury Free Coalition for Kids (Milwaukee): Car seat safety program offering car seats to families in need. website.
Clark County Health Department, Clark County: “Car Seats for Kids” program. Free car seat checks and potential free car seats, educational materials. More details here
Brown County Public Health (Brown County): Car Seat Program offers discounted car seats to qualified families to increase child safety restraint use. website.
WYOMING Free Car Seats
Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, Cheyenne: Partners with Kohls, Walmart, and retailers to offer free or discounted car seats. Call Injury Prevention Department at (307) 432-2679. Details here
Teton County Car Seat Program, Teton County: Affordable car seats supported by Kiwanis Club donations. Suggested donation $25. No seats for second vehicles. Details here
Conclusion: Prioritizing Child Safety with Available Support
Securing the right car seat for your child is a crucial step in ensuring their safety while traveling. The financial burden of car seats shouldn’t prevent any family from protecting their children. As this guide demonstrates, a wide array of programs exists across the United States, dedicated to providing car seat assistance to families in need.
From state and local health departments to non-profit organizations, WIC and Medicaid programs, insurance initiatives, and community-based efforts like churches and pregnancy centers, help is available. By understanding the types of programs and utilizing our state-by-state guide, you can navigate the resources in your area effectively.
We encourage you to reach out to the programs listed in your state and explore the eligibility requirements and application processes. Taking advantage of these programs not only eases financial strain but also equips you with the knowledge and resources to confidently protect your child on every journey. Child passenger safety is a community priority, and these programs are valuable partners in making our roads safer for the youngest travelers.
