The Kewanee Police Department’s Child Passenger Safety Initiative has wrapped up 2025 with a remarkable impact on local families. Launched in 2024, the program garnered strong community support and, thanks to an IDOT grant, provided car seats to 20 families who may not have otherwise had access to proper safety equipment. Organizers emphasize that the initiative is helping ensure safer travel for children throughout the region. Looking ahead, plans are underway to offer a Child Passenger Safety Technician certification course in Kewanee this fall, providing vital training for those working with young families. They distributed 44 free Roth ID tags, gave 13 car seats to families in need, and provided over 20 free seats to the community.
Hybrid classes on child passenger safety are now being offered, with a convenient format that includes online instruction and just one in-person day. These sessions cover general car seat safety, new parent and child safety tips, and other important topics to help protect young passengers. Individuals and agencies interested in hosting a safety class can reach out via Facebook, call the Kewanee Police Department Non-Emergency line at 309-853-1911, or email [email protected] to schedule a session. This initiative aims to ensure more families receive up-to-date safety information in flexible and accessible formats.
Technician BreAnne Bryner said, “When this program launched in 2024, it was brand new—and I truly didn’t know what to expect. What I didn’t anticipate was the incredible level of community support we would receive.”
BreAnne said, “I’m also excited to share that I am now officially an Instructor Candidate with Safe Kids Worldwide! My goal is to host a Child Passenger Safety Technician certification course locally in Kewanee this fall. If you—or someone you know—are interested in becoming certified, please reach out and keep an eye out for upcoming class announcements. This training is especially valuable for teachers, nurses, first responders, caseworkers, doctor office/hospital staff and others who work with children and families.”
The Kewanee Police Department thanks the community for supporting their initiative, “Thank you to everyone who has supported this initiative and helped make our community safer—one car seat at a time. I am so genuinely grateful and proud to offer these services to the Kewanee area.”