Oklahoma City, OK - Last Thursday, dozens of families drove home from the Oklahoma Democratic Party headquarters with safer children after receiving free car seats.

"The Democratic Party is about building community, and we're thrilled we could play a part in this event," stated Todd Goodman, chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party (ODP). "Helping our neighbors in need is a key Democratic principle, and the partnership for this event is a great illustration of that ideal."

The event, in which about 50 car seats were distributed and installed to families in need, was made possible by a partnership between the Whitten-Newman Foundation, the Safe Kids Coalition and Infant Crisis Services.

Lauren Guhl, who both serves as vice-chair of the state Democratic Party and works with the Whitten-Newman Foundation, said that this is the third year for the car seat giveaway, and the second time that the ODP has been involved in the partnership.

"We are always looking for ways to bring in more people and more organizations who, like the Foundation, are invested in improving lives in our community," she stated. "The Democratic Party has always been a voice for those who can't speak for themselves – and children especially need a voice, someone who will work to keep them safe."

The Whitten-Newman Foundation donated 50 car seats for the event, and the Safe Kids Coalition provided additional seats in different sizes for families with multiple children. Families who received car seats were referred by Infant Crisis Services.

"You can't imagine the excitement of our clients when we told them they could receive free car seats," said Jo Lynne Jones, Director of Operations for Infant Crisis Services. "They want to keep their children safe, but sometimes buying a car seat is out of their reach. These families are coming to us for essentials such as diapers and formula – and a car seat is an investment that few of them can afford. We are so grateful to be approached to partner in this event."

Volunteers from the Safe Kids Coalition installed the seats and taught parents how to install the seats themselves and other safety tips for their children.

ODP will be hosting another car seat event in October.