Car seat safety is paramount for parents and guardians. Recognizing the financial strain that quality car seats can place on families, Stroger Hospital in Chicago has historically offered a low-cost car seat program. This initiative aimed to make essential child passenger safety equipment more accessible to the community.
Please note: The low-cost car seat program at Stroger Hospital is currently suspended until further notice. It is crucial to verify the program’s status before planning a visit. You can reach out to Stroger Hospital directly at 312-864-2016 for the most up-to-date information.
Previously, the Stroger Hospital Car Seat Program provided a valuable service to Chicago residents by offering infant, convertible, and booster seats at significantly reduced prices, ranging from $30 to $40 per seat. This program operated on a cash-only basis and was available during specific hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Interested individuals were directed to the Pediatric Waiting Area of the Emergency Room to participate.
A key component of the Stroger Hospital car seat program was the mandatory 20-minute car seat installation video. This requirement underscored the program’s commitment to not only providing affordable car seats but also ensuring that parents and caregivers were equipped with the knowledge to install them correctly. Proper car seat installation is critical for maximizing child safety in vehicles.
While the Stroger Hospital car seat program is suspended, it is essential to remember the importance of child passenger safety. For individuals seeking car seat installation assistance and checks in Chicago, several resources remain available:
- Chicago Fire Department, Public Education Office (312-747-6691): While contact may be inconsistent, it’s worth inquiring about car seat check services.
- Secretary of State (866-247-0213): This resource may provide information on car seat safety programs and technicians.
- Chicago Police Department (Call 311 or local district): Local police districts may offer car seat checks or guidance.
- Suburban Fire and Police Departments: Contact your local departments as many offer car seat checks by certified technicians.
- Seatcheck (http://www.seatcheck.net): This website allows you to locate car seat check events in your area.
- Safe Kids Illinois (http://www.safekidsillinois.org/cert.safekids.org): Use their “Find a Tech” tool to search for certified child passenger safety technicians near you.
Prioritizing child passenger safety is crucial. Even though the Stroger Hospital car seat program is currently unavailable, numerous resources in Chicago can assist parents and caregivers in securing and correctly installing car seats, ensuring the well-being of children on every journey. Always verify program availability and details directly with the providing organization before making plans.
