Office of Traffic Safety Awards $261,165 Grant to the County of Monterey’s Health Department for Child Safety Seat Education Program

The County of Monterey Health Department announced on December 29 that it has received a $261,165 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), to support its efforts in educating parents and caregivers about the importance of child safety seats and making sure every child travels safely. The grant program runs through September 2026.

"We are thrilled to receive this grant to support our child safety seat education program,” said Health Program Coordinator Julia Marmolejo. “Proper use of child car seats can dramatically reduce the risk of injury or death in a crash. With this funding, we can provide hands-on training, resources, and support so that every family has the knowledge and tools needed to keep their children safe."

Grant funds will be used for a variety of community outreach events, education classes, distribution of child safety seats, and training on the installation and use of child safety seats. The car seat safety program includes:

Child safety seat inspection events and education classes.

Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) training and recertification courses.

Child safety seats at no-cost for families in need.

Partnering with local organization on car seat safety community outreach efforts in underserved communities

"Through child passenger safety programs and strong partnerships, we are working toward a future where every child is protected on California’s roads,” OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty said. “By supporting projects that help families learn the importance of properly using car seats and boosters, we are building a culture where child safety is always the priority."

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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