KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Car crashes are the leading cause of child deaths in the United States.
One of the best ways to protect young children in cars is by using the correct car or booster seat.
While some families might not be able to afford the seats, the Wyandotte County Public Health Department isn't letting that stop families from keeping children safe.
Every Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m., public health workers help low-income families obtain the proper car seat for their children. Workers will find the appropriate size and teach the family how to install it in their car.
Traffic Safety Administrator Tory Anderson said many people in the county might not know about the resource.
"This program helps people that you wouldn't even believe need help," Anderson said.
There are a few requirements to the program. Along with being a Wyandotte County resident, eligible families must receive Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program, KanCare, use a Vision card or receive Supplemental Nutritional Assistance (SNAP) benefits.
Eligible families can receive a car seat provided by the department or bring theirs in for a spot check.
"We're here to also provide them in case the one we check has been in a car accident or maybe it's expired," Anderson said. "Then we can provide them with a new one."
Car seats do have an average shelf-life of about six years, according to Anderson, unless otherwise stated.
Anderson said the program helps between 150-200 people per year. Her goal is to increase that number.
"Just knowing that 200 more kids are safe in our community, that is what's most important," Anderson said.
Eligible families must make an appointment. The department requests a $30 donation fee to keep the program running.
"We're more than happy to work with families if that's something they're not able to do," Anderson said.
