Georgia counties get grant to give out free child car seats

A Georgia agency says dozens of counties statewide will share $166,000 in grant money to buy child car seats for those who need them.

The Georgia Department of Public Health said in a news release that car seats will be distributed among 107 counties using money awarded from the Child Passenger Safety Mini Grant program.

Officials are hoping the program will prevent child deaths throughout the state, saying that the program has saved the lives of over 375 children involved in crashes since 2007.

“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 Public Health Commissioner Kathleen Toomey. “Buckling up our children is the best way to save lives and reduce injuries.”

Over $150,000 have been allocated to buy car seats for Georgia families.

Funding for the safety grants comes from the Governor's Office of Highway Safety. The grants also support community programs that teach parents and caregivers how to properly inspect, install and use child car seats.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.