High schools eligible for traffic safety grants
Advertiser Staff
Honolulu, HI, Sept. 8, 2008 – The State Farm Insurance company is once again sponsoring its "Shift Into Safety" program at high schools throughout the state in hopes of reducing the number of traffic deaths involving young drivers.
One in four crash deaths in the U.S. involves a driver between the ages of 16 and 24, State Farm officials said.
Many fatal crashes involving young people are caused by simple driver error. Inexperience and immaturity are key factors, according to State Farm.
Under Shift Into Safety, students design and carry out campaigns to educate their classmates and community about the risks young drivers face - and how to reduce them.
The best campaigns will earn grants of up to $5,000.
Now in its third year, Shift Into Safety grants have helped improve teen driver safety in 14 high schools across the state. Subjects explored include the dangers of cell phones, driving while intoxicated, and the importance of seatbelts.
There is no limit on the number of students who can participate. Students can organize themselves within a particular class, a student club, or as individuals simply coming together for a common cause.
Each campaign must clearly outline a plan for reducing crashes among teen drivers.
Applications are due Oct. 25, coinciding with National Teen Driver Safety Week. Awards will be announced in December with grants to be presented by February. Projects must be completed by the end of the school year. Public and private high schools are eligible.
For applications and rules, contact: Carolyn Fujioka (808) 951-1160 or by email at carolyn.fujioka.atxn@statefarm.com.
