Ensuring the safety of your child while traveling is paramount, and for families in Syracuse, New York, the Catholic Charities Car Seat Program offers vital support. Understanding the critical importance of proper car seat installation and usage, this program provides crucial resources to income-eligible families, making child passenger safety accessible to all.
The Child Passenger Safety Program by Catholic Charities is designed to equip parents and guardians with the necessary tools and knowledge to protect their little ones on the road. Recognizing that financial constraints can sometimes hinder access to essential safety equipment, this initiative steps in to bridge the gap.
How the Catholic Charities Car Seat Program Works
This program simplifies the process of obtaining a car seat while ensuring recipients are well-informed about its correct usage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to accessing this valuable service:
Eligibility and Application
To qualify for a free car seat, applicants must meet certain income criteria. Proof of participation in assistance programs such as WIC, Medicaid, or Food Stamps is required to confirm income eligibility. Residents of Onondaga County are encouraged to apply.
The first step is to contact Catholic Charities at 315-424-1800. When you call, request to register for a car seat class. This initial contact is essential to start the application process.
Intake and Agreement
Upon registration, applicants will need to complete an intake form. This form gathers necessary information to process your request. Additionally, a Hold Harmless Agreement will need to be filled out. This is a standard document ensuring understanding and agreement with the program terms.
Training is Key
Education is a cornerstone of the Child Passenger Safety Program. Before receiving a car seat, every recipient is required to watch a training video. This video comprehensively explains the proper installation techniques and correct usage of car seats.
Following the video, a certified Traffic Safety Seat Technician provides hands-on training. You will learn how to correctly install the car seat in your vehicle, ensure the child is properly fitted in the seat, and understand best practice usage techniques. This personalized instruction is invaluable for ensuring your child’s safety.
Hands-On Installation Assistance
The program strongly encourages recipients to bring their vehicle to the training session to perform the car seat installation themselves, under the guidance of the certified technician. This practical experience solidifies the learning process and builds confidence in proper installation. However, if bringing your own vehicle is not feasible, an installation vehicle can be provided to ensure you still receive practical installation training.
Funded for Community Safety
The Child Passenger Safety Program is made possible through funding from the National Highway Safety Administration, with a grant from the NYS Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. This collaborative support highlights the commitment to child passenger safety at both state and national levels, ensuring programs like this can continue to serve communities in need.
By participating in the Catholic Charities Car Seat Program, families in Syracuse can gain peace of mind knowing their children are traveling safely. This program not only provides essential car seats but also empowers parents with the knowledge and skills to protect their children on every journey. For more information or to begin your application, please contact Catholic Charities at 315-424-1800.
