At Bethany Children’s Health Center, through our Safe Kids Oklahoma initiative, we are deeply committed to safeguarding children in our community. We understand that ensuring your child’s safety on the road begins with the proper use of car seats. That’s why we are proud to offer a free car seat program in Oklahoma and discounted car seats to families who qualify, alongside vital education and resources to prevent tragic accidents.
Understanding Car Seat Safety in Oklahoma
Child passenger safety is paramount. Car crashes are a leading cause of death and injury for children. Using car seats correctly can drastically reduce the risk of serious injury and fatality in the event of a crash. Safe Kids Oklahoma is dedicated to increasing car seat safety awareness and accessibility throughout Oklahoma. We believe every child deserves the best protection, regardless of financial circumstances.
Safe Kids Oklahoma Discounted Car Seat Program
Safe Kids Oklahoma provides resources and support to families to ensure children are riding as safely as possible. We understand that cost can be a barrier to accessing necessary safety equipment like car seats. Therefore, we offer a program to provide car seats at a significantly discounted price of $15 to eligible families. While not entirely free, this deeply discounted rate makes car seats accessible to those who may otherwise struggle to afford them. This program is designed to ensure that financial constraints do not compromise a child’s safety.
Eligibility Requirements for Discounted Car Seats
To participate in the Safe Kids Oklahoma car seat program and receive a discounted car seat, certain requirements must be met:
- Legal Guardian Status: You must be the child’s legal guardian to receive a car seat. This ensures the car seat is going to the primary caregiver responsible for the child’s safety.
- Proof of Government Assistance: We require proof of government assistance to ensure we are reaching families with the greatest need. Acceptable forms of proof include WIC, Food Stamps (SNAP), or SoonerCare (Medicaid).
- Discounted Cost: There is a $15 cash-only cost per car seat. This nominal fee helps us to sustain the program and serve more families. There is a limit of one car seat per child and a maximum of three car seats per family.
- Intended Use: Car seats provided through our program are intended for use in the legal guardian’s vehicle. We are unable to provide car seats for secondary caregivers such as babysitters or other family members.
- Expectant Parents: Expectant parents are eligible to receive a convertible car seat up to 6 weeks before the baby’s delivery. For expectant parents, proof of guardianship is not required.
- Infant Carriers: Please note that we do not provide infant carriers through this program. We focus on convertible car seats which can be used for a longer period as the child grows.
How to Schedule an Appointment
Appointments are required to receive a discounted car seat and utilize our services. This ensures that we can provide you with dedicated attention and proper car seat education.
To schedule your appointment, please contact Julia Koelsch at (405) 789-6711 Ext 2401.
Additional Car Seat Resources in Oklahoma
Safe Kids Oklahoma is not the only resource for car seat safety in Oklahoma. We encourage you to explore all available options to ensure your child’s safety.
OKC Metro Area Car Seat Checks
For those in the Oklahoma City metro area, there are various locations and times to have your car seats checked by certified technicians. This is a valuable service to ensure your car seat is installed correctly, even if you are not receiving a car seat through our program.
OKC Metro Area Car Seat Checks
Health Department Car Seat Assistance
For families in both urban and rural areas across Oklahoma, your local health department can also provide assistance with car seats. They can offer guidance and potentially connect you with further resources.
Health department car seat assistance
Beyond Car Seats: Other Safety Programs by Safe Kids Oklahoma
Safe Kids Oklahoma is dedicated to comprehensive child safety. In addition to car seat programs, we offer a range of initiatives to protect children from preventable injuries, including:
- Bike & Pedestrian Safety: Educational courses, bike rodeos, and safety events in schools and communities.
- ATV Safety: Promoting safe ATV and side-by-side vehicle practices through ATV Ride Safe OK.
- Water Safety: Free safety materials and Personal Flotation Device (PFD) loaner programs at Oklahoma lakes.
Contact Safe Kids Oklahoma
For more information about the discounted car seat program or any of our other safety initiatives, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your child’s safety is our priority, and we are here to help.
Email us at [email protected].