POLICE DEPARTMENT & IHS DISTRIBUTE FREE CAR SEATS TO FAMILIES

By Harrison J. Bahe

On February 12, 2026, immediately following the Kings and Queens of Hearts event at the H’man Shawa Early Childhood Development Center, Indian Health Services (IHS) hosted a free car seat distribution event, providing car seats to parents and caregivers at no cost.

The event was led by Kayla Jackson, District Injury Prevention Coordinator for Western Arizona, and her team from IHS, in collaboration with staff from H’man Shawa and the Fort McDowell Police Department. In addition to distributing car seats, the event also served as an educational opportunity for families. Parents received hands-on instruction on proper installation, correct harnessing techniques, and guidance on maintaining and adjusting the seats as their children grow.

Six certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians were on site to assist with installations and answer questions, ensuring that each family left with both a properly secured car seat and the knowledge needed to keep their children safe on the road.