Did you know there are 5 million children in the U.S. that live in poor or low-income families under the age of 3!  Diapers are a pricey, essential item for parents, hurting low-income families already struggling with the pandemic's economic woes.

While there is help from federal food assistance programs for low-income mothers and children up to 5 years old such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program (SNAP) and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) which provides aid to women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have young children, they cannot be used to purchase diapers or wipes.

According to local agencies providing basic needs, diapers were felt to be one of the top issues facing local struggling families.  Diapers/Pull Ups are an essential part of life if you have a child between the ages of 0-4.

One package of diapers and wipes can cost $ 30.00.   A lack of diapers can jeopardize a family’s ability to remain economically stable, as well as their child’s health.  Infrequent diaper changes increase the risks of illness and infection.

Infants need up to 12 diapers each day and toddlers need up to 8 diapers each day.  On average, a diaper costs 18 cents. An adequate monthly supply of diapers costs $75/month or more per child.  The average cost of disposable diapers and wipes per year for one child is $900.00.  When a parent works 40 hours a week and is paid the federally required minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, the bill for diapers is nearly eight percent of their salary.

Diapers will be distributed to various food banks and non-profits in Stephens County by the United Way of Stephens County.  For more information contact us at 580-255-3648.