If you’re looking for a free car seat program in Michigan, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the program, including how to apply and what the eligibility requirements are.
Car seat safety is important for all families, but it’s especially crucial for low-income families who may not be able to afford a car seat otherwise. The free car seat program in Michigan is a great resource for these families, and we hope you take advantage of it if you’re eligible.
Free car seat programs in Michigan
OHSP Car Seat Distribution for Techs
The Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning is providing free car seats to certified child passenger safety technicians for distribution to low-income families. The car seat request form and Cosco car seat order form must be completed and submitted to OHSP at least 45 days prior to the seat check event. Requests will be accepted on an ongoing basis throughout the year as funding is available. Car seats will be purchased through an existing state contract and shipped to the location specified by the CPS technician.
The current situation with COVID-19 has caused a delay in the distribution of the seats, but the program is still running and families can expect to receive their seats once the conditions have stabilized. More information about the program can be found here.
Kids Always Ride Safe Program
In addition to the Michigan State Police Department’s program, the Kids Always Ride Safe Program, run by Health System Portage, provides a car seat for a smaller price. This program is educational, so not only will families receive a car seat, but they will also learn how to use it to keep their children safe.
Safe kids west Michigan’s Injury Prevention Programs
Some other great resources that can help you during hard times are Safe Kids West Michigan’s Injury Prevention Programs and Wayne Metro Community Action Agency’s reoccurring free car seat distribution program.
Kohl’s Safe 4 Kids program
Another great resource for families in Michigan is Kohl’s Safe 4 Kids program. This program provides educational sessions for parents and car seat distribution. Contacting one of these programs is a great way to get the resources you need to keep your family safe.
What are free car seat programs?
Free car seat programs are designed to help low-income families afford safe, reliable car seats for their children. These programs typically provide financial assistance to families who otherwise would not be able to afford a car seat, and often work with local organizations to provide car seats to families in need. Many free car seat programs also provide education and resources on car seat safety and proper installation, to ensure that families are able to keep their children safe on the road.
How do the free car seat programs work?
Most free car seat programs require that families meet certain income guidelines. Some programs may also require that families have a child under a certain age, or that they participate in certain government assistance programs.
To apply for a free car seat, families usually have to fill out an application and provide proof of income. Once they are approved, they will be given a voucher that can be used to purchase a car seat at a participating retailer.
Some programs may also provide car seats directly to families. In these cases, families will usually have to pick up the car seat from a designated location.
Other ways to get a free car seat in Michigan
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
When looking for a free car seat, the first place to check is WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). If you are already registered in WIC, inquire about their free car seat program. Most WIC programs require you to attend a brief training on car seat safety and use in exchange for a voucher to purchase a car seat. If your local WIC does not provide this type of service, you can inquire about alternative local programs/charities/locations that may be able to assist you.
Medicaid
If you qualify for Medicaid, you may be able to get a free car seat. Fill up an online application through the Health Insurance Marketplace website to see whether you are qualified for Medicaid, particularly for a car seat. Before you may get a free car seat, Medicaid usually requires you to take a brief car seat safety course. The training is intended to raise knowledge about the use of car seats as well as suitable methods and strategies for installing them.
Insurance companies
Most insurance companies give free car seats to new moms or pregnant women who are covered. If you contact your insurance company (the phone number should be on your insurance card), they will almost certainly reimburse the cost up to a certain limit or give you with a car seat on the spot. If you qualify for Medicaid, you may be eligible for a free car seat.
Fill out an online application through the Health Insurance Marketplace website to see whether you are qualified for Medicaid, especially if you need a car seat. Before you may get a free car seat, Medicaid usually requires you to take a brief car seat safety course. The training is intended to raise knowledge about the use of car seats as well as the right methods and strategies for installing them.
local police station or fire department
Your local police station or fire department is a great source for free car seats. Professionals at these agencies are often trained in car seat installation and can help you find new seats through various charities.
local church
Your local church may be able to help you connect with a charity or organization that provides assistance to low-income families.
Hospitals
Hospitals are a great resource for obtaining a car seat at no cost. They can either help you directly or point you towards some great local resources.
Buckle up for life
Buckle Up for Life has donated 61,858 car seats to low-income families nationwide. They collaborate with different organizations at a local level to provide resources, education, and training to parents all over the country. Families in need who participate in their child passenger safety classes qualify to get a free car seat.
Conclusion
We hope that the information we have discussed above will help you to find free car seat programs in Michigan. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to comment below.
