Rummage Sale Raises Money for Car Seats
By: Kristin Anderson
Updated: October 27, 2012
"We help families of victims of drunk drivers. We provide car seats to families who can't afford good quality car seats to their children," said Michelle Mantanona. "Just a lot of community outreach in Jarret's name."
Jarret Mantanona was 8 years old when he was killed in a drunk driving accident. So to spread awareness, his parents launched a memorial foundation in his name.
"The only other option was to keep going, to keep fighting and to keep his name alive in the only way we can," his mother said.
It's fundraisers like this one that allow Jarret's family to take the tragedy and turn it into a way to help other people.
"We really just want to make sure that this doesn't happen to anyone else child in any way we can," Michelle explained.
That's where the car seats come in.
"My younger son Jonathan was also in the car with us," said Michelle. "His seat kept him safe. His car seat saved his life."
After writing a letter to Safety First to thank them for a quality seat that saved their son's life, the company sent them 18 car seats. And that's when the Mantanonas realized how else they could make a difference.
"So many children are getting fatally injured these car accidents. And a lot of parents don't know how to properly put in their child's car seats or they decide to purchase the least expensive car seat they can find, not realizing that they're putting their children's lives in danger," she explained.
As the Jarret Matanona memorial foundation continues to spread awareness, Michelle and her family have been giving quality car seats to families, saying that if it can protect their son, it can protect other children.






