The Georgia Department of Public Health’s (DPH), Injury Prevention Program announces the 2018 recipients of Child Passenger Safety Mini-Grants. The grants help county health departments and their community partners reduce the number of injuries and deaths among children in Georgia. This year’s $229,670 award will be used to support the purchase of car seats to be distributed in over 115 Georgia counties. Funding for these efforts is provided by the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS).

Since 2007, more than 344 Georgia children who were involved in crashes were saved because of car seats or booster seats provided through the mini grant program. Education about car seat safety and proper installation have also helped protect young lives. 

“Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children and it’s up to all of us to do everything we can to protect our children on the road,” said J. Patrick O’Neal, M.D., commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Health. “Buckling up our children is the best way to save lives and reduce injuries.”

Throughout Georgia, DPH and county health departments work with community partners to educate parents and caregivers on how to properly install and use car seats, offer car seat inspections and provide car seats and booster seats to financially eligible families. These programs help families get their children buckled up right, every trip, every time.

DPH takes great pride in providing opportunities to enhance community outreach programs in Georgia. Through our collective efforts, we can make considerable strides in achieving our goals. For more information on the child Occupant Safety Project, please email injury@dph.ga.gov or call the office at 404-463-1487. Additional information regarding county contacts can be found at: gacarseats.com and scroll through the main page attachments.

Ben Hill, Lowndes and Tift County Health Departments received the car seat mini grant in South Health District.