United Way of Central Georgia is partnering with local businesses across the area to meet a rising need for diapers among families with young children. Of course, all families with young children need diapers, but until a recent diaper distribution organized by United Way’s First Steps and local organization, Time 2 Elevate, volunteers had no idea how many Central Georgia families need diapers who are unable to afford them. Parents shared stories like, “I had to keep my baby in a wet diaper longer because I couldn’t afford another pack of diapers until pay day.” One mom even told volunteers she was arrested this month after stealing diapers she couldn’t afford to purchase. United Way jumped into action with support of local businesses.
Six area businesses are hosting diaper, training pant, and baby wipe drives. These designated “diaper drop-off” spots are:
• Shoppes at River Crossing (mall office)
• Head over Heels
• Cadence Bank
• MidSouth Community Federal Credit Union
According to the National Diaper Bank Network, one in three families experience “diaper need.” This week, September 21st-27th, is National Diaper Need Awareness Week and United Way’s hope is that with this diaper drive, no parent in Central Georgia will need to choose between diapers for their young children and food for their family. If you’d like to donate diapers or host a diaper drive, visit here.
Several local companies have also announced they will do internal diaper drives including Perdue Farms and Anderson Walker & Reichert Llp. In addition to local businesses serving as “diaper drop-off” spots, First Quality has agreed to donate $500 worth of diapers per quarter for United Way to distribute. The Southern Center for Choice has also agreed to supply diapers for United Way to distribute in the community.