Healthier Moms and Babies kicks off diaper drive

Brittany Smith | Tuesday, May 28, 2024

The total collection of diapers and wipes from the 2023 drive. Courtesy

Diapers dropped of at the MKM offices during the 2023 drive. Courtesy

Diapers collected at the Hagerman office during the 2023 diaper drive. Courtesy

What’s happening? Healthier Moms and Babies is kicking off their third annual, community-wide diaper drive. The drive collects diapers and wipes at drop-off points across the region, which are then distributed to families in the community.

Last year, they collected over 115,000 diapers and wipes. This year they are hoping to surpass that number. According to the press release, they are most in need of diaper sizes 3, 4, 5, 6, 2T/3T, and 4T/5T, as well as wipes.

In 2023 the nonprofit distributed over 300,000 diapers. Diapers, wipes and baby products are distributed through home visitation programs and their Hopper Moblie Outreach.

Why it’s important: According to Healthier Moms and Babies, one in three families across the state are in need of diapers. Diapers are considered an essential need for babies, keeping them clean, healthy and dry.

“Diaper need affects the whole family: Without clean diapers. babies are exposed to
potential health risks and toxic stress, mothers are at risk for increased maternal depression, which can increase her risk of preterm birth, and parents are unable to access childcare, which require a daily supply of diapers, causing parents to miss work or school,” the press release reads.

How to participate: Those interested in donating items to the drive can drop off diapers and wipes at one of the 90 public drop-off sites located throughout Allen, Noble and Steuben counties between now and June 16.

Click here to see a map of those sites.

Those in need of diapers, wipes or other baby items can reach out via phone at 260-469-4076 or they can visit the Healthier Moms and Babies website to register to receive diapers through their Hopper.

What they’re saying: “When you donate to Healthier Moms and Babies, you’re supporting your neighbors right here in Northeast Indiana. When you donate diapers and wipes, we can provide more families with the resources they need so more babies stay clean, healthy, and dry.” -Paige Wilkins, CEO of Healthier Moms and Babies

Read more articles by Brittany Smith.

Brittany Smith is Input Fort Wayne's Managing Editor. Previously she served as Assistant Editor and participated in the College Input Program. She also volunteers for Northeast Indiana Public Radio.