Ensuring the safety of your child while traveling is paramount, and car seats are non-negotiable for young passengers. However, the cost of car seats can be a significant burden for low-income families. Fortunately, numerous car seat programs across the United States are dedicated to providing assistance. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the various avenues to obtain free or low-cost car seats, ensuring your child’s safety without straining your finances.
We will explore different types of organizations that offer car seat assistance, ranging from government agencies to non-profits, and provide a detailed state-by-state directory to help you find resources in your local area. Whether you are an expecting parent or already have young children, this guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge and resources to secure the Car Seat Programs For Low Income Families that you need.
Understanding Car Seat Assistance for Low Income Families
Why Car Seats are Crucial for Child Safety
Car seats are engineered to protect children in the event of a car crash. They are rigorously tested and designed to distribute crash forces, keeping the child securely in place and minimizing the risk of serious injury. Using the correct car seat, appropriate for a child’s age, weight, and height, is not just a recommendation—it’s the law in most places and a critical component of responsible parenting. Proper car seat usage dramatically reduces the risk of fatal injury in crashes for infants by 71% and for toddlers by 54%. For older children, booster seats reduce the risk of serious injury by 45% compared to seat belts alone. Investing in a car seat is investing in your child’s life and well-being.
Financial Barriers to Car Seat Acquisition
Despite their critical safety role, car seats can be expensive. The cost can range from affordable models to more advanced, feature-rich seats that can be a significant financial hurdle, especially for families with limited incomes. This financial strain can sometimes lead families to delay purchasing a car seat, use hand-me-down seats of unknown history, or even forgo car seats altogether, unknowingly placing their children at risk. Recognizing this barrier is crucial to understanding the importance of car seat programs for low income families.
How Car Seat Programs Bridge the Gap
Car seat programs for low income families are designed to alleviate the financial burden and ensure that all children have access to safe car seats. These programs are run by a variety of organizations, including government health departments, non-profit charities, and community support services. They operate by providing free or significantly discounted car seats to eligible families, often coupled with essential education on proper car seat installation and usage. By bridging the financial gap, these programs directly contribute to child safety and well-being, making car travel safer for the most vulnerable members of our communities.
Types of Organizations Offering Car Seat Programs
Many different types of organizations are involved in providing car seat programs for low income families. Each type may have different eligibility criteria and methods of assistance. Understanding these categories can help you target your search effectively.
State or Local Health Departments
State and local health departments are governmental agencies focused on public health within their jurisdiction. These departments frequently address child passenger safety as part of their broader health initiatives. They often receive funding to operate car seat programs, particularly for low-income families, as they recognize child safety as a vital public health issue.
To find your local health department, a simple online search using your state or county name along with “health department” will usually lead you to their official website. These websites typically have contact information and details about available programs. Eligibility for health department programs often prioritizes low-income families or those receiving public assistance, like WIC or Medicaid. Some programs may be open to all residents, but resources are generally targeted to those with the greatest need. Be aware that program availability and specific requirements can vary significantly between states and even counties, so direct contact is always recommended to get the most accurate and up-to-date information. Many health departments also require participants to attend a brief car seat safety education course before receiving a car seat, ensuring proper use and installation.
Non-Profit Organizations
Non-profit organizations play a crucial role in social welfare, operating independently of government to address specific community needs. Numerous non-profits focus on child safety and offer car seat programs as part of their services. Organizations like Safe Kids Worldwide and United Way are nationally recognized non-profits that may have local chapters providing car seat assistance. Smaller, community-based non-profits may also operate in your area, focusing specifically on local needs.
Finding non-profit organizations can be done through online searches using terms like “car seat assistance near me” or “children’s charities [your city/state]”. Websites like Charity Navigator can help you verify the legitimacy and effectiveness of a non-profit organization. Eligibility criteria for non-profit programs can vary but often prioritize families demonstrating financial need or facing specific challenges. Funding for non-profits relies heavily on donations and grants, so the availability of free car seats can fluctuate. Many non-profits, like Buckle Up for Life, often incorporate safety education into their car seat distribution, requiring or encouraging participants to attend safety classes.
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Programs
WIC is a federally funded program dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of low-income women, infants, and children up to age five. Administered by state health departments and local agencies, WIC provides nutritional support, healthcare referrals, breastfeeding support, and crucially, car seat education and sometimes car seats themselves.
If you are already enrolled in WIC, you should definitely inquire about car seat programs. WIC agencies are excellent resources and often have established programs or partnerships to provide car seats to participants. Even if they don’t directly provide car seats, they can often direct you to local resources that do. To find your local WIC agency, search online for “[your state/county] WIC program” or consult local government resources. WIC programs are specifically designed for low-income families, and eligibility is based on income and categorical criteria (pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children under five). Similar to other programs, WIC-related car seat assistance often includes a safety education component to ensure proper car seat use.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state government program providing health coverage to millions of Americans with low incomes. Medicaid’s mission is to ensure access to healthcare for vulnerable populations, and this can extend to preventative measures like car seat safety. While Medicaid itself does not directly provide car seats in all cases, it can be a gateway to accessing car seat programs.
Eligibility for Medicaid is primarily based on income, household size, and categorical eligibility (children, pregnant women, parents, elderly, and people with disabilities). If you are enrolled in Medicaid, you may be eligible for free car seats through programs that partner with Medicaid or recognize Medicaid enrollment as a qualifying factor. To apply for Medicaid, you can visit the Health Insurance Marketplace website (healthcare.gov) or your state’s specific Medicaid website. Check with your Medicaid case worker or state Medicaid agency to inquire about car seat benefits or referrals to car seat programs. Like other assistance programs, Medicaid-related car seat programs often prioritize safety education, sometimes requiring participants to complete a safety course.
Insurance Companies
Insurance companies, while primarily focused on financial risk coverage, are increasingly involved in community safety initiatives, including car seat safety. Some insurance providers recognize the long-term benefits of preventing injuries and offer car seat programs as a benefit to their policyholders or as a community service.
If you have car insurance, it’s worth checking with your insurance provider about potential car seat programs. Some companies offer free car seats to new or expecting parents who are policyholders. This is not a universal benefit, so it’s essential to review your policy details or contact your insurance agent directly. Even if your own insurance company doesn’t offer a program, they may be aware of local car seat initiatives or community events they support. The availability of car seats through insurance companies is often tied to specific policy types or benefits packages, so detailed inquiries are necessary to determine eligibility.
State Car Seat Inspection Stations
State car seat inspection stations are designated locations where certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) inspect car seat installations and provide guidance on proper usage. These stations are often located at fire departments, police stations, health departments, or hospitals, staffed by trained volunteers or professionals.
You can find inspection stations near you by using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Child Car Seat Inspection Station Locator (www.nhtsa.gov/carseat). These stations are a valuable resource for all parents and caregivers, offering free inspections and advice to ensure car seats are correctly installed. While not all inspection stations directly provide free car seats, some do have limited supplies for families in need. CPSTs at inspection stations are also knowledgeable about local car seat programs and charities and can often provide referrals to organizations that offer free or low-cost car seats. Contacting your local inspection station is a great first step, even if they don’t directly provide seats, as they can connect you with other resources.
Local Churches
Local churches often extend their community outreach beyond religious services, providing various forms of assistance to those in need within their communities. Many churches operate or partner with charitable programs that can include material assistance like baby supplies, which may encompass car seats.
To find local churches in your area, online searches or community directories are helpful. Contacting churches directly and inquiring about their community support programs is the best approach. Churches may have direct programs or connections with charities or organizations that specifically provide car seats to low-income families. The availability of assistance through churches varies widely depending on the church’s resources and community focus. Churches often rely on donations and volunteer efforts, so their capacity to provide car seats may be limited but is always worth exploring as part of your search.
Pregnancy Life Centers
Pregnancy life centers, also known as crisis pregnancy centers, are typically non-profit organizations offering support and resources to women during pregnancy and early parenthood. These centers often provide a range of services, including counseling, parenting classes, and material assistance, which can include baby supplies like diapers, clothing, and sometimes car seats.
To locate pregnancy life centers in your area, online searches using terms like “pregnancy resource center near me” or “crisis pregnancy center [your city/state]” can be effective. National networks like Care Net and Heartbeat International can also help you find affiliated centers. Pregnancy life centers primarily serve pregnant women and new mothers, aiming to provide support throughout pregnancy and the early years of raising a child. Many centers offer “earn-while-you-learn” programs where expectant mothers can attend parenting or childbirth classes and earn points or credits to redeem for baby supplies, including car seats. The specific items offered and the requirements for receiving them vary by center, so direct contact is recommended to understand their programs and eligibility. Remember that these centers are often donation-dependent, so the availability of specific items like car seats can fluctuate.
Hospitals and Health Care Systems
Hospitals and health care systems are increasingly recognizing their role in preventative care and community health. Some hospitals offer car seat programs as part of their patient and community services, particularly for new parents. These programs may be run through maternity wards, pediatric departments, or community outreach divisions.
To find out if hospitals in your area offer car seat programs, check the hospital’s website, especially sections related to maternity services, pediatrics, or community health. You can also call the hospital directly and inquire about car seat assistance programs. Hospitals may provide free or low-cost car seats to patients, especially those who deliver at their facilities or are part of their healthcare system. Some hospitals may also host car seat safety events or workshops and offer car seat distribution at these events. Not all hospitals offer car seat programs, so direct inquiry is necessary to determine availability. Hospitals that do offer programs often prioritize patients within their system but may also have community-wide initiatives.
Free Car Seats by State
To make your search for car seat programs for low income families easier, we have compiled a state-by-state guide. Please note that program availability and details can change, so always verify information with the listed organizations directly.
ALABAMA Free Car Seats
Alabama Department of Public Health (Statewide): Offers car seat assistance to expectant mothers or parents receiving federal benefits such as 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. More information is available on their website.
Alabama Farmers Federation (Statewide): Provides low-cost car seats for 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. Details on their website.
Children’s of Alabama, (Birmingham): Offers a free car seat program for patients discharged without a car seat. Families must watch a short educational video on car seat usage. Learn more.
Baby’s Bounty (Montgomery): Provides essential newborn items, including car seats, to families in need in the Montgomery area. Find out more.
ALASKA Free Car Seats
Safe Alaskans (Anchorage): Offers car seats for families in need, with suggested donations of $10 for booster seats and $35 for car seats. Website.
Community Pregnancy Center (Anchorage): “Life Lessons” classes allow participants to earn “Baby Bucks” redeemable for car seats and other essentials at their Mini Depot. Website.
Mat-Su Services for Children and Adults (Wasilla): Offers car seats at reduced costs based on a sliding scale for all families. Website.
Alaska Injury Prevention Center (Anchorage): Limited 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 event calendar.
Fairbanks Safe Rider Program (Fairbanks): Possible car seats or booster seats for families. Contact them for details. Website.
Juneau Police (Juneau): Inspections by appointment, replacement seats for a minimum fee if necessary. Website.
Alaska DOT (Statewide): Lists potential resources for free car seat information. Website.
ARIZONA Free Car Seats
Children Are Priceless Passengers (Statewide): Operates in nine locations. $35 fee for safety class, free car seat for 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 with a safety class. Call (928) 771-5651 or visit 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 a 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 take a two-hour class. Details here.
ARKANSAS Free Car Seats
Farm Bureau Federation (Statewide): Members with Farm Bureau Insurance of Arkansas can access the Infant Car Seat Program. Car safety seats from $15. Website.
Rogers Police Department Car Seat Loan Program (Rogers): Loan program for families with financial hardship. One car seat per family, distributed Wednesdays 9 am – 3 pm. Car seat installation service also available. Find out more.
CALIFORNIA Free Car Seats
Related Reading: Free Car Seats in California (county-based list).
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 at many 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 upon completing safety class and qualification. Website.
Clinic in the Park’s Boosters in a Bag (Orange County): Free booster seat after completing an online course. 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 car seat 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 completing an 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 seats after car seat safety classes and demonstrating learned knowledge. More information.
Family Health Centers of San Diego (San Diego County): Free car seats for Prenatal program patients. 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 seats for families receiving public assistance. More information.
St Francis Medical Center (Los Angeles County): Free car seats 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, free car seats for low-income, active military, or refugee women (at least 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 to eligible families upon education and installation by a certified car seat technician. More information.
Colusa County Family Action Centers (Colusa County): Classes for $20, families may qualify for free car seats. More information.
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): Car seat vouchers worth $50 for low-income families, redeemable at Walmart. Morgan County details. Contact them for voucher program details.
Custer County Program (Custer County): Contact Terra Raye at 719-783-9451 or 719-371-3046 or email [email protected] for car seat resources, prioritizes county residents. Custer County details.
Montezuma County Car Seat Program: Provides car seats at a reduced cost, education on proper use and installation, certified technicians available. Learn more
CONNECTICUT Free Car Seats
St. Gianna Pregnancy Resource Center: Provides maternity and baby items to those in need. Website.
Hope Pregnancy Center: “Earn While You Learn” program offering education and material assistance, including after birth. Website.
Southington Police Department: Considers child passenger seat requests from those in need. Contact community relations division at [email protected]. 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 upon course completion. 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, may provide free car seats. Event dates on calendar.
FLORIDA Free Car Seats
Florida Department of Transportation Safety Office (Statewide): Sponsors car seat purchase and distribution to trained 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): Up to three car seats for $25 and booster seats for $15 for members. More details.
Tampa Police Department (Tampa): Child Passenger Safety Technicians (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 child safety seats to those in need in Palm Beach County. 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, surrounding counties): Provides basic necessities including car seats to families in need. Website.
St. Johns County Tax Collector – Project Buckle Up: Free car seats to families in need, education on correct installation and usage. Project Buckle Up.
Wolfson Children’s Hospital Car Safety Program: Low-cost car seat workshop, 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 installation information through Mini Grant Program, collaborates with local 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): Free booster seats and safety training to financially eligible families through Child Passenger Safety Mini-Grant. More details.
Safe Kids Cherokee County (Cherokee County): Up to ten car seats and education to financially qualified Cherokee County families through mini-grant. More information.
Safe Kids North Fulton (North Fulton County): Child seat education and free child seats to qualifying families through Safe Kids North Fulton Child Passenger Safety Mini Grant. More details.
Northeast Georgia Health System (Northeast Georgia): Car Seat Safety Class with Car Seat Distribution, discounted car seat for attending. Website.
Women’s Enrichment Center of Dalton (Calhoun, Gordon County): Car Seat Education Class, free car seat for each child. More details.
Bartow County Fire & Emergency Services (Bartow County): Car seat checks and installations, assistance for low-income Bartow County families to obtain car seats. 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: Car seat safety program. Contact directly for details. 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): Partnership with Farmers Insurance Hawaii for free car seats and education for families in financial need (program continuation in 2023 not confirmed). Contact Car Seat Check office for free car seat check and inquire about free car seats. Website and here.
Aloha Pregnancy Center (Oahu): Baby & Me Boutique stocked with baby items including car seats. Website.
Keiki Closet (Oahu): Partners with LIV pregnancy center, provides baby essentials 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 on a donation basis. More 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 (ask for Kirstin); Success by 6 of the Palouse, (208) 882-7387; St Joseph Regional Medical Center-Family Beginnings, (208) 799-5430 (ask for Linda Rosetti)
- 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 (Also has 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, including organizations offering car seat inspection, assistance, and education. 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. More details.
Buckle Up Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Program (Chicago, Cook County): Car seat information, installation assistance, reduced-cost car seats for at-risk families. Monthly car seat seminars, inspection stations, community partners. More information.
CountyCare (Cook County): Free car seats for expectant parents. More details.
Fair Hope (Vermilion County): Car seats for families WITHOUT a vehicle, for children 5-40 pounds. More details.
Safe Kids Coalition (Statewide): Safe car seat events, instruction, inspection, free or low-cost car seats and safety products. 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 offering assistance including car seats to families in need. Auxiliary Stroger Hospital Community Programs.
Grant A Wish Inc. Chicago: Baby Program provides essentials including car seats to parents unable to afford them. Grant A Wish Inc. Baby Program.
INDIANA Free Car Seats
Community Health Network (Marion County): Free car seats for parents in need. More details.
Gear-Up for Safety Program (Statewide): Safety equipment for child-safe homes, including car seats. More details.
Project L.O.V.E. (Statewide): Law enforcement program educating on child safety seats, free seats for low-income Indiana citizens. More information.
Franciscan Health Car Seat Safety Clinics (Tippecanoe County): Free car seats for families in need, reservations and eligibility restrictions apply. More details.
Indiana University School of Medicine (Marion County): Partnership with Go Insurance providing free car seats as part of kid passenger safety initiative. More 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 car seats (convertible, combination, and booster seats, not baby carriers) to families in need. More information.
Johnson County Empowerment/ECIA, Johnson County: Periodic Car Seat Events, free seats for kids in need, damaged or expired seats replaced. More information.
Jones County Public Health, Jones County: Car seats and booster seats available for families needing them for safe child transport. More information.
Stork’s Nest in Polk County, Iowa: Incentive-based program, baby items including car seats for low-income new and expecting mothers. More details. Call (515) 558-9950.
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 through “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 card, KanCare Health Plans, Vision Card, Kansas Farm Worker Health Program. Car seats for pregnant women 30 days before due date, or replacement car seats for outgrown seats or crash (with police report). More information.
Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) and North Kansas City Fire Department, North Kansas City: Federal grant for car seats for low-income families, partnered with NKCFD. Income restrictions apply. More information.
Swope Health (Kansas City): Free car seat giveaway at event celebrating moms and healthy babies. More information.
Baby Talk ICT (Wichita): Car seat safety classes, families in need may qualify for free car seats. Website.
Injury Free Coalition for Kids (Kansas City): Car seat safety program, potential car seats for families in need. More details.
KENTUCKY Free Car Seats
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Statewide: Child safety seat and booster seat inspections, sometimes free car seats for families in need. Official website.
Hardin County Health Department, Hardin County: Car seat program, car seats for families in need, educational video and certified technician installation required. Website.
Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness, Louisville: Child safety seat checkups, Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians, free car seats for 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 car seat 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 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. Website.
MAINE Free Car Seats
Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, Statewide: Free car seats to qualifying Maine families. Contact directly to check child qualification. More details.
KVCAP Child & Family Services Department, Statewide: Distribution stations for Maine Bureau of Highway Safety’s car seat program, free car seats for low-income families. Official website.
Maine Families Washington County, Washington County: Free convertible and booster car seats for income-eligible families, sponsored by Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, conditions apply. More about services.
Southern Kennebec Child Development Corporation, Kennebec County: Collaborates with Bureau of Highway Safety, car seat education and distribution, eligible families schedule appointment with certified car seat technician. Official website.
MARYLAND Free Car Seats
Safe Kids Frederick County, Frederick County: Free car seats for residents, program of Frederick County Health Department. Official webpage.
Maryland Department of Health’s Kids In Safety Seats, Statewide: Low-cost car and 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 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: Child passenger safety car seat check-up events twice a month, free car seats and booster seats to families in need. Official webpage.
UMass Amherst Police Department, Amherst: Grant-funded car seats for parents in need, CPS trained installers for checks and recalls. 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, MassHealth eligibility or below poverty line in Massachusetts required. Webpage.
Boston Medical Center (Boston): Car seat program for patients. Program PDF.
MICHIGAN Free Car Seats
Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, Statewide: Supports neighborhood car seat distribution initiatives, car seats at regional seat check events and fitting stations for low-income families. More details.
Family Futures, Kent County: Medicaid enrollees in Kent County eligible, income-eligible also considered. More information.
Kids Always Ride Safe (KARS), Houghton and Keweenaw Counties: Car seat education and low-cost car seats, available to families in Houghton and Keweenaw Counties, including WIC families. Website.
Maternal Infant Health Program, Statewide: Free car seats for Medicaid families, discounted car seats for families with economic hardships. More information.
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, funded by various sources. More information.
The Baby Blanket (Michigan): Crib & Car Seat Program, car seats among necessities for babies in need. Website.
Sherburne County Public Health, Sherburne County: Car seats for Sherburne County residents meeting income requirements, WIC, Medical aid, or Medica PMAP program participants automatically qualify. More information.
Every Day Miracles, Statewide: Donates car seats to families with Medical Assistance health coverage. Website.
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, car seats for PrimeWest, Blue Plus, and other eligible groups. Webpage.
Norman-Mahnomen Public Health Department, Norman-Mahnomen Counties: Free car seats for MinnesotaCare and Medical Assistance participants, guidance on car seat selection and use. Webpage.
Vadnais Heights City (Statewide): Car Seat Program, safety checks and car seats for families in need. Website.
Mille Lacs County Community Health (Minnesota): Car seat safety checks and assistance in obtaining car seats. Website. Public Health: 320-983-8208, Toll-Free: 888-270-8208.
Carver County Public Health (Minnesota): Child Passenger Safety Program, car seat installation checks, 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.
Farm Bureau Mississippi, Statewide: Child Saver Program, reduced-cost car seats and booster seats for members. Webpage.
MISSOURI Free Car Seats
Platte County Buckle Up Kids Car Seat Program, Platte County: Free car seats to Platte County residents meeting income requirements. More information.
SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Safety Program, Statewide: Free car seats for children under one year old with parent instruction. Local Child Passenger Safety Partners for older children. More information.
Cass County Health Department, Cass County: Free car seat safety workshops for families needing car seats 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 given away to those in need. More information.
Lawrence County Health Department (Lawrence County): Car seat program, education, installation assistance, low-cost or free car seats for eligible families. Website.
Safe Kids Columbia, Columbia: Free car seats provided to those in need. More information.
Callaway County Ambulance District, Callaway County: Partnered with SERVE, Inc. and Safe Kids Columbia, voucher application at SERVE, Inc. for free car seat. More information.
MONTANA Free Car Seats
Missoula County, Missoula County: Car seat vouchers for those receiving public assistance, first-come, first-serve. Website.
Greater Gallatin Safety Commission, Bozeman area: Free car seats for families in need. More information.
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 to families in need who apply online. Website.
Ravalli County, Ravalli County: Car seats for families in need by appointment only. More information.
Safe Kids Yellowstone County, Yellowstone County: Car seats available when possible, reduced-cost program, some may qualify for free seats under grants. Appointment for car seat check required. More details.
NEBRASKA Free Car Seats
Safe Kids South Central at Mary Lanning Healthcare, Hastings: Lower cost car seats for those with Medicaid, Kids Connection, or WIC. More information.
Three Rivers Public Health Department (Dodge, Saunders, and Washington counties): Child car seats for eligible families unable to afford new ones, partnered with Safe Kids. 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 and install no-cost seats to 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 adhering to 130% of 2020 US Federal Poverty Guidelines. More information.
NEW HAMPSHIRE Free Car Seats
Amerihealth New Hampshire: Free car seats and booster seats for Amerihealth NH child members, up to $129 value. More information.
WellSense: Free car seats for WellSense NH MassHealth ACO or MCO members, infant seat once per lifetime (5-65 lbs), booster seat to replace infant seat (4-8 years old). Pregnant mothers can request 45 days prior to due date. Call WellSense Member Services. More information.
New Hampshire Right to Life (Statewide): Supports pregnancy centers, provides 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 through Burlington County Sheriff’s Department to expecting families or families with infants who cannot afford them. Application and proof of income required. Program details.
Ride of My Life: Charity providing car seats for mothers unable to afford them to bring newborns home from hospital. Hospitals in NJ encouraged to contact for maternity patients in need. More information Charity outreach.
NEW MEXICO Free Car Seats
New Mexico Child Safety Seat Distribution Program, Statewide: 40 distribution stations across New Mexico, 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 to low-income families, booster seats for older children, assistance intended once. More information.
Wayne County Public Health Child Safety Programs’ Car Seat Distribution Class, Wayne County: Free car seats contingent on class attendance, photo ID, proof of public assistance, Wayne County residency. Details.
Onondaga County Car Seat Program, Onondaga County: Free car seats sponsored by Catholic Charities of Onondaga County (eligibility 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 across New York State, Washington County program details. Car Seat Distribution Program page.
New Hope Family Services (Syracuse): Pregnancy-related services including help obtaining car seats. 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: Car seat safety education, free car seats for eligible 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.
NORTH DAKOTA Free Car Seats
North Dakota Car Seat Distribution, Statewide: State program sponsored by ND Dept of Health and ND Dept of Transportation, 25+ distribution locations. Find a location.
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. More details.
Bismarck Child Safety Program (Bismarck): Car seat safety education, potential resources for families in need of car seats. Website.
Safe Kids Grand Forks (Grand Forks): Car seat checkup events, education, may provide 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). More information.
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. 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 and installation. Free seats occasionally from ODH. More information.
Lorain County Car Seat Program, Lorain County: Car seats and booster seats for qualifying individuals, Lorain County residents, qualifying income (WIC or SNAP), 30-minute information session required. More details.
Tuscarawas County Health Department Car Seat Program, Tuscarawas County: WIC Income Eligible children may receive one car seat every three years if parents/legal guardians attend class and pass quiz. More 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. More information.
Warren County Health District Car Seat Program, Warren County: Free car seats, parent/caregiver must meet WIC income limits (not required to be in WIC), child meeting car/booster seat requirements, educational class required. More details.
Knox Public Health Car Seat Program, Knox County: Convertible and booster seats for low-income families in collaboration with Ohio Department of Health’s Ohio Buckles Buckeyes. $10 charge suggested at class. More 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). More details.
Lake County General Health District (LCGHD) Car Seat Program, Lake County: Car seats to income-eligible families in collaboration with University Hospitals and Ohio Buckles Buckeyes (OBB), instructional class required. More information.
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 seats. Infant car seats for families receiving assistance from Job and Family Services. 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 or low fee. Details.
Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, Injury Prevention Service, Safe Kids Oklahoma, Statewide: Car/booster seat program through county health departments, free car seats and booster seats for families qualifying for WIC, Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF. Details.
Bethany Children’s Health Center, Bethany: Inexpensive car seats for eligible individuals. Details.
Infant Crisis Services, Oklahoma City: Supplies like diapers, blankets, baby clothes, formula, car seats, and other essentials to those in need. Details.
Muskogee County Emergency Medical Service, Muskogee County: Grant-funded 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 discounts for WIC participants. Details.
Oregon Building Healthy Families, Wallowa County: Car seats with class on sliding scale payment basis. Details.
Bambinos Oregon, Polk County: $15 deposit car seats for current Bambinos clients in Polk County, education provided. Details.
Care Inc, Tillamook County: Low-cost car seats, case-by-case basis, and other essentials for Tillamook County residents. Details.
Legacy Health, Portland: Car seat safety class with no/low-cost car seat availability. Details.
Multnomah County Healthy Birth Initiative, Multnomah County: Discounted car seats for Black or 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 new car seat by taking five parenting classes. Details.
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.
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 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 with SAFE KIDS in Dauphin County through Penn State Children’s Hospital, referrals from public assistance organizations, safety checks available. Details.
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia: Free child car seats through CHOP Child Safety Seat Program, healthcare professional referral required for those unable to afford seat, must actively receive public assistance and have green EBT Access card. Details.
Pennsylvania Traffic Injury Prevention Project’s Car Seat Loan Program, Statewide: Free car seats at locations throughout county. Details.
Central Pennsylvania Community Action, Central Pennsylvania: Car seat loaner program for those unable to afford car seats, in collaboration with PennDOT and PA Traffic Injury Prevention Project, income levels at 150% of 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 car seat. Details.
Seats 4 Safety Program at Lifespan (Statewide): Car seat inspections, may provide 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 through Buckle Buddies, discounted car seats at Palmetto Health Baptist’s Birthplace, regular car seat $65, convertible car seat $35. Contact (803) 296-5437. More details.
Prisma Health Baptist Hospital, Taylor at Marion St. Columbia, SC 29220
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. More details.
SOUTH DAKOTA Free Car Seats
South Dakota Department of Social Services, Statewide: Child Safety Seat Distribution Program, free child safety seats to families meeting income eligibility requirements. Details.
Sanford Children’s CHILD Services, Statewide: Child Safety Seat Distribution Program, free child safety seats to families meeting income eligibility requirements. Details.
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, Statewide: Free car seats to parents meeting requirements, SD residents enrolled in financial assistance programs (Medicaid, WIC, SNAP, CHIP, Child Care Assistance, or Head Start). Details.
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.
Mother To Mother (Nashville): Non-profit providing health, safety, and wellness items for infants and children in need, programs may help families acquire car seats. Website.
TEXAS Free Car Seats
Texas Health and Human Services, Statewide: Safe Riders initiative, child passenger safety education and child safety seat distribution to low-income families, referrals to local distribution stations. Details.
Denton County Public Health, Denton County: Safe Riders initiative, child safety seat distribution and education, car seats for eligible families attending course (self-certified financial need, vehicle with safety belt, one-hour session). Monthly car seat 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 to low-income mothers pregnant or with small children, State of Texas Safe-Riders Program distributor. Details.
UMC Foundation El Paso (El Paso): Car Seat Safety Program, car seats for families unable to afford them. Website.
Families to Freedom (Dallas): Car seat program for families in need, ensuring safe transport for children on way to safer life. Website.
UTAH Free Car Seats
Salt Lake County Health Department, Salt Lake County: New car seats sold on sliding fee scale to qualifying families (income at or below 195% federal poverty level), car seat class required. Details.
Tooele County Health Department, Tooele County: Low-cost car seats to qualifying families, free car seat education classes first Wednesday of every month. Details.
Weber-Morgan Health Department, Weber County: New car seats sold on sliding fee scale to qualifying families (income at or below 195% federal poverty level), car seat class required. Details.
Southwest Utah Public Health Department, Southern Utah: Car seats free or discounted after car seat installation course. Details.
VERMONT Free Car Seats
Vermont Safety Seat Voucher Program, Statewide: Free car seats and booster seats to low-income families meeting program qualifications (receipt of state or federal funds). Details.
Rescue Inc., Statewide: Pediatric Safe Organization, free car seats to qualified low-income families, free car seat inspections to anyone. Details.
Lyndon Rescue, Statewide: Free child safety seat inspections and installation, low-cost car seats and booster seats to income-eligible families, Vermont’s Child Passenger Safety Program participant. Details.
Springfield Hospital, Springfield: Nationally Certified Passenger Safety Technician, car seats to individuals in need in collaboration with Vermont Department of Health and Vermont Governor’s Highway Safety Program. Details.
Colchester Police Department, Colchester: Nationally qualified child passenger safety technicians, car 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: Free child safety seats to low-income families. Details.
Fairfax County Health Department, Fairfax County: Free car seat instruction and car seat to income-eligible parents, foster parents, legal guardians of child aged 7 or younger, and pregnant women in third trimester. Details.
City of Norfolk’s Child Passenger Safety Program, Norfolk: Free child safety seats and booster seats to low-income families from third trimester of pregnancy through age seven, instruction provided. Details.
City of Lynchburg, Lynchburg: Child Safety Seat Technicians, program for low-income children. Details.
Louisa County, Louisa County: Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Division of Injury and Violence Prevention Child Safety Seat Program, seat distribution and instruction to low-income families. Details.
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.
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 other essentials. Details.
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, Southwest WA: One-hour car seat education class, limited car seats available for low income families. Details.
Eastside Baby Corner, Seattle and Surrounding Areas: Community organization serving families in need, car seats and baby essentials, partners with Afghan Health Initiative. Details and here.
Two Hearts Pregnancy Aid, Washington: Car seats to any qualifying family in need. 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 seats, free infant/toddler seat or booster seat, fitting and strapping information. Collaboration between DDOT, MPD, DMV, and Safe Kids Washington DC. Details.
WEST VIRGINIA Free Car Seats
The Gabriel Project of West Virginia, Statewide: Assists families lacking financial means for new infant needs, infant essentials including new cribs, new car seats, diapers, formula, clothing, hygiene products at no or low cost. Details.
Motown Christian Help (Morgantown): Programs to support families, program providing 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, variety of car seat services. More details.
Injury Free Coalition for Kids (Milwaukee): Car seat safety program, car seats for families in need in Waco area, injury prevention focus. Website.
Clark County Health Department, Clark County: “Car Seats for Kids” program, free car seat checks, potential free car seats, educational materials. More details.
Brown County Public Health (Brown County): Car Seat Program, discounted car seats to qualifying families. Website.
WYOMING Free Car Seats
Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, Cheyenne: Partners with Kohls, Walmart, and local retailers for free or 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, cannot provide seats for second vehicles, suggested $25 donation. Details.
Conclusion
Securing a car seat for your child is a critical step in ensuring their safety on the road, and financial constraints should not be a barrier to accessing this essential safety equipment. As this guide demonstrates, numerous car seat programs for low income families are available across the United States, offered by a diverse range of organizations committed to child passenger safety.
From state health departments and federal programs like WIC and Medicaid, to non-profit organizations, local churches, and hospitals, help is available. We encourage you to utilize this comprehensive state-by-state directory to identify resources in your area and reach out to the programs that best fit your needs. Remember to check specific eligibility requirements and program details directly with the organizations listed, as program information can change.
By taking advantage of these car seat programs for low income families, you can ensure your child travels safely, providing peace of mind and prioritizing their well-being without undue financial stress. Your child’s safety is priceless, and these programs are here to help make it accessible to everyone.
