How To Get A Free Car Seat

 Car accidents are the leading cause of death for children in the United States. When used correctly, child safety seats reduce the risk of death by up to 71% for infants and 54% for older children. Unfortunately, infant car seats are prohibitively expensive. 

Parenting blogs can now receive a free car seat because it is a legal requirement and it is expensive. There are specific programs and local facilities which offer free car seats. Experts advise against purchasing used car seats because they have expiration dates, and it's difficult to determine when they were bought and if they've ever been in a collision. To know more about free seats, you have to read the article. 

Importance Of Car Seats 

Hospitals will not discharge a newborn unless an infant car seat is present in your vehicle. Seats range in price from $80 to $400 new and must meet safety regulations regardless of price. Child seat costs quickly add up, especially when upgrading is required as the child grows. However, low-income families may be able to obtain a free infant car seat. Additionally, it is possible to save on car seats when you trade in your old one. 

Normal Car Seat Prices 

The median household income for families in 2017 was $61,372. The numbers increase when you add taxes and other living expenses to doctor and hospital bills. Car seat prices can vary greatly depending on whether you need an infant seat or a convertible seat. Depending on the item, you should expect to spend between $50 and $350. 

This may not seem like much to some. However, many of today's parents are already struggling to make ends meet. As important as safety is to parents, the cost of things can sometimes cause significant anxiety. 

Cheap car seats can still meet the same safety standards as more expensive brands. The cost of a car seat doesn't have to be an issue for you, as there are ways for free seats to be obtained. 

How Can Parents Obtain Free Car Seats For Their Children? 

The programs listed below provide parents with accessible car seats for their children. These programs have income restrictions and require you to complete a car seat safety course before receiving a free car seat. 

●       National Car Seat Programs

 

If you qualify for Medicaid, a free car seat may be covered. Fill out an online application through the Health Insurance Marketplace website to see if you are eligible for Medicaid, particularly for a car seat. Before getting a free car seat, Medicaid usually requires you to take a fast car seat safety course. The course is intended to raise awareness about the use of car seats and the proper methods and techniques for installing them. ‎‎ 

When looking for a free car seat, WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) is the first place to look. If you are already enrolled in WIC, ask about their free car seat program. Most WIC programs require you to attend a brief class to learn about car seat safety and usage in exchange for a voucher to purchase a car seat. 

Depending on the state, WIC may provide vouchers that can be used to purchase a car seat or assist in other ways. If your local WIC does not have a program like this, you can inquire about other local programs/charities/places that can assist you. 

●       Baby2Baby 

Baby2Baby is a national organization that helps poor children from birth to age 12. They help provide essentials to families by collaborating with several organizations. 

Depending on where you live, one of Baby2Baby's partner organizations may be able to provide you with a free car seat. It would help if you also looked into other local and national charities as a possible source of a low-cost or free car seat. 

●       Safe Kids Worldwide 

Safe Kids Worldwide is a non-profit organization dedicated to keeping children safe from harm. In the United States, there are over 400 different Safe Kids coalitions, and it works with partners in 30 countries to promote child safety. 

They're an excellent resource for any questions about car seats and safety. Safe Kids can assist you in determining what you require, whether it is installation assistance or financial assistance. This organization educates and trains child passenger safety technicians (CPSTs). CPSTs are individuals who have undergone extensive training in all aspects of car seats. 

●       Call 211 

Anyone struggling to make ends meet can call 211 and ask for assistance, which includes assistance in obtaining a car seat. The beauty is that you don't need to be referred to other programs because everything you need is right there. The 211 call center will connect you with your local 211 center, ensuring that you will receive local assistance. 

In total, 50 states provide 211 services to 309 million people, or roughly 95 percent of the US population. In 2020, they will have responded to 20 million calls from people in need of immediate assistance. 

●       Statewide Car Seat Programs 

In addition to national programs, each state has its own free car seat education, installation, and safety checks. Some of them may offer free or discounted car seats if you need them. The blog Safe Convertible Car Seats includes links to the appropriate departments in each state. 

Most insurance companies provide free car seats to insured new mothers and pregnant women. Contact your insurance company, and they will almost certainly cover the cost up to a certain point or provide you with a car seat directly. ‎ 

Other Places Where You Can Get Free Car Seats 

●       Hospitals 

The majority of hospitals do not give away free car seats, but some may offer programs to make sure that all new parents have access to safe car seats. It's possible they won't give them away for free, but they can offer them at a significant discount or even allow you to borrow them. 

The organization can also point you in the direction of local programs that provide free car seats. In order to discharge a mother from the hospital after giving birth, the hospital must assist her in finding a car seat that fits within her budget. 

Your OB/GYN is another source for low-cost or free car seats. Their company helps mothers understand the stress of finding a reasonably priced seat for their children. Remember that each organization's eligibility requirements will be different. 

●       Police and Fire Departments 

Many fire departments provide a free car seat program. In the absence of a local fire or police department, they may be able to point you in the direction of an organization who can help you. These professionals are also a great resource if you want to ensure that you properly install your car seat and fasten the five-part harness. 

●       Churches 

Local churches that assist may have a car seat program, and they may also know of other resources for car seats and other items you require. Between birth and the age of two, the average cost of having a baby is $12,680 per year. Take advantage of any available assistance to obtain baby food makers, formula, diapers, and other necessities. 

All 50 States Offer Free Car Seats 

Every state in the country has church programs, charities, and government programs that provide free car seats to low-income families.

●       Alaska Free Car Seats

The Center for Safe Alaskans' Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Program promotes car seats and booster seats to help state laws keep children safe whenever they travel in a motor vehicle. They also provide car seats to low-income families for a small donation. 

Mat-Su Services for Children and Adults offers free car seat safety checks to the public every month. These events are free and provide information on choosing the right car seat or booster seat for your child, as well as hands-on instruction on proper installation, correct use, and other factors important for safe car seat usage. There are also a limited number of car seats available in perego strollers once the training is completed. 

●       Alabama Free Car Seats 

Children of Alabama is a fantastic organization that works hard to provide people with healthcare options. They have many programs for low-income people, such as bike helmets for $10 each and free car seats. Children of Alabama patients who do not have a car seat at discharge are eligible for free car seats. Patients must also complete primary education before being suitable for a seat. 

●       Everyday Miracles 

Everyday Miracles is a Minneapolis, Minnesota-based organization that works to provide necessities to low-income mothers. To receive assistance, you must fill out their request form, and you indicate whether you want a car seat, a breast pump, a Doula, etc. 

This is a resource that can be used for both unborn children and children who have already been born and require a car seat. Unfortunately, car seats are in high demand, so your request may take some time. Doula requests should be made around 26 weeks of pregnancy, and breast pumps require a prescription from your doctor. 

●       Ohio 

Toyota provides funding for Cincinnati's child passenger safety initiative. They assist Ohio residents in obtaining free car seats. Furthermore, the website offers links to other partners who can help you find free car seats in other states. 

Their website also contains a wealth of information about child passenger safety, including car seat videos. The videos demonstrate how to install rear and forward-facing car seats and booster seats properly. 

Like the above two states, other states have programs and local facilities that offer free car seats. If you were worried about how to keep your kid safe, you don't need to worry any longer. A variety of resources are available to help you. 

Never Purchase Utilized Car Seats 

Car seats are designed to keep your child safe while driving. You must obtain a car seat from a reputable organization and understand the car seat's history if it has been used or donated.

Buying used may be an excellent way to obtain a high-quality car seat at a low cost. The seat, however, may not be safe unless you buy from someone you know well. Never buy car seats at a thrift store or a garage sale. Look for legitimate providers and original car seats. The following are the dangers of buying a used car seat: 

• Unknown history—you can't be sure that the car seat hasn't been in an accident, and seats that have been in a collision are considered unsafe.

•   Wear and tear—the seat's integrity may be compromised, but the flaw is not visible to the naked eye.

• Countless people have no idea that car seats have an expiration date after which they should not be used.

Note: Expiration dates on car seats are no laughing matter. They're there because the seat's plastic expands and contracts with temperature changes, making it more prone to breaking. Furthermore, the metal frames may have interior rust, which compromises safety in the event of a collision. 

Things to Consider 

It would be preferable if you did not skimp on quality because you are receiving a free car seat. When you get your seat, there are a few things you should keep in mind: 

• Where you obtained it: Did you obtain it from a reputable organization or a friend? Most organizations that distribute car seats will give you a brand new one, but the quality may be lower if it isn't brand new.

•  Overall quality: If the seat appears to be in poor condition, you should avoid it. A car seat may appear attractive on the outside, but it is essential to inspect the interior to ensure no damage.

 Final Words 

A car seat is a legal requirement for infants and children. However, not everyone can afford one. If you're on a tight budget, you might be wondering if it's possible to get a car seat for free. Fortunately, there are numerous options for obtaining free baby items, such as a car seat. Try one of the alternatives listed above.