New diaper bank program at Community Resource Center

||| FROM MEGAN EHRMANTROUT for COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER |||

The onset of the new year brings a valuable new program to the Orcas Community Resource Center. Thanks to a generous grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce, we are excited to introduce our Diaper Bank program. Families meeting eligibility criteria and having children under the age of 3 can now apply to receive diapers, wipes and ointment without incurring any costs. 

Diaper needs are a growing problem in our country. According to new data from The NDBN Diaper Check 2023: Diaper Insecurity among U.S. Children and Families, 1 in 2 families in the United States cannot afford enough diapers to keep their infant or child clean, dry, and healthy. These infants and toddlers are more prone to uncomfortable rashes and urinary tract infections, resulting in increased visits to the doctor. 

In addition, roughly 3 in 5 parents are forced to skip work or school at times due to financial constraints preventing them from providing the necessary diapers for their babies in childcare. Ensuring access to clean diapers emerges as an essential requirement for every baby and toddler.

Through the Resource Center’s Diaper Bank program, families are eligible to receive an allotment of diapers and wipes per month. Families in need can apply through the following link by the 20th of each month to pick up diapers during business hours after the 1st of the following month: form.jotform.com/233536236583157 

Nationwide, studies have found that diaper need is a significant contributor to postpartum depression. 1 out of 3 parents cut back on basic essentials to afford diapers for their children. Babies will use an estimated 6,000 diapers during their first 2 years of life. Families expressing a need for diapers represent a diverse range of ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Considering babies 2-4 months old can use up to 1o diapers a day and babies 12 months and up can use around 210 diapers a month – that adds up! 

The Resource Center’s Diaper Bank program is one more step in our mission to foster a healthy community by connecting Orcas Islanders with the services needed to thrive and achieve equitable well-being. We’re here to help! The little actions of many have a ripple effect when we work together. If you’d like to learn more about our services or support our work, please visit orcascrc.org.