Car seats are a necessity for transporting children in your vehicle, but they can be expensive. Did you know that there are organizations across the state that give free car seats for families in need?
Minnesota’s Child Passenger Safety Program receives funding from several resources and provides free car seats for those who need them. Check the map of car seat distribution facilities to get started and/or check out the organizations listed below.
On the map, ust click on your county to find contact information of organizations that give out car seats in your area. Most will give you at least an email address for you to contact.
In addition to the organizations found on that map, I also found these groups that give out free car seats:
Everyday Miracles (Minneapolis)
Provides free car seats to those with a Minnesota state-sponsored (Medicaid) insurance plan from Blue Plus, HealthPartners, UCare, or UnitedHealthcare. The car seat will be delivered to your home by a Car Seat Technician who will provide one-on-one safety education.
Hannah’s Arms (Lindstrom)
Gives out free car seats to those who attend a session of Hannah’s Arms, a free program held monthly (registration required). Parents are invited to come, have their children cared for in the nursery, do a craft, hear an educational topic and have lunch. Parents, children and volunteers join together for lunch.
HealthPartners
Provides free car seats to PMAP and Minnesota Care members who watch some training videos and download a brochure. Car seats will be delivered by a Certified Technician (Twin Cities metro area only).
Hennepin Health
Distributes free car seats to Hennepin Health members who register and complete a class at MVNA or NorthPoint Health and Wellness Center in Minneapolis.
UCare
Gives out free car seats and safety education to eligible UCare members. You must set up an appointment with a UCare SEATS partner by calling UCare Customer Services at the number on the back of your member ID card.
And if you would like to get your car seat installation checked for safety purposes, consult the map for available car seat checks in your county. Some of these are free, while others require a fee.
Do you know of any other Minnesota organizations that give out free car seats? If so, please leave a comment so we can keep this list up-to-date. Thank you!
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Laura is a former high school English teacher turned avid deal shopper following the birth of her first child. Now she’s a work-from-home mom of six which keeps her plenty busy!
Laura grew up in southern Minnesota and has called the Twin Cities home for over fifteen years. On the off chance she gets some free time you’ll find her with her nose in a book, spending time with family and friends, or enjoying a hot cup of coffee.
Elizabeth says
If you have either Health Partners or Blue Plus PMAP Insurance and live in Stearns, Benton, Sherburne or Wright County you are eligible for a free car seat after your sixth month of pregnancy. Call Milestones 320.251.5081 and ask for Makayla or Abdinoor. If your child has PMAP health insurance coverage they are eligible for car seats up to age 8 or 4’9”.