The statistics are sobering. Nearly half of families with children ages 3 and younger experiences diaper need. Our economy is designed in such a way that renders basics like diapers unaffordable for many families, creating a huge gap: According to the Diaper Insecurity Dashboard, in Dallas County alone, 87,000 babies and toddlers don’t have adequate access to enough diapers to keep them clean, dry and healthy.
Filling this gap would require 52,225,800 diapers annually. Across the state of Texas, that number is 546,060,700—over a half a billion diapers short each year.
It’s a huge need with far-reaching impact. Babies without access to adequate clean diapers are at greater risk of infections and rashes, and their parents often forgo other necessities to be able to buy essentials for their children. The dashboard reports that one in four of these parents say they skipped meals to save money for diapers. And the ongoing stress of struggling to keep their babies clean and dry takes a continual mental and emotional toll.
But amid this systemic problem there is hope: There’s something each one of us can do to help families facing diaper need, and when many of us come together, we can make a big dent in the gap. Below are four ways you can make a difference, some within the next five minutes.
Spread the word.
Simply sharing a few facts about diaper need—such as the reality that nearly half of families of young children don’t have enough diapers to keep their babies clean and healthy—can be eye-opening. By helping others become aware of this need, whether over coffee with a friend or through a social media post, you can help bring attention to this issue and get more people involved in coming alongside babies and their families.
Host a diaper drive.
Collecting diapers at your workplace, community center or place of worship can help babies in two ways: Not only does it provide much-needed supplies, but it raises awareness and gives people an easy way to participate. Hosting a drive is simple, and Hope Supply Co. offers a toolkit to help your drive run smoothly.
Volunteer your time.
We depend on volunteers to sort and package diapers and other baby items so that they’re ready to be distributed. By giving your time, you help families get the supplies they need. And, by serving with family, friends or a group from your workplace, you can get others involved as well—not to mention have the joy of making a difference together. Click here to learn more and sign up!
Multiply your dollars.
Giving financially to Hope Supply can maximize the impact of your donation thanks to the power of bulk purchasing: We’re able to buy more diapers per dollar, making your funds go even further. For families in need, every diaper matters, and your gift plays a vital role in strengthening the support systems that will help the next generation thrive. Click here to give now.
For every baby who’s able to get off to a better start, simple steps like these make a world of difference. Though the gap is great, it’s addressed one generous act—and one diaper change—at a time.