Southeastern Idaho Public Health asks community to donate diapers or dollars

The Southeastern Idaho Public Health (SIPH) department is asking community members to donate diapers or dollars to the diaper bank during Diaper Need Awareness Week.

One in three American families can’t afford a sufficient supply of diapers to keep their babies clean, dry and healthy, according to SIPH.

To draw attention to the issue, September 23 through September 29 has been designated as Diaper Need Awareness Week in Idaho.

The National Diaper Bank Network estimates that in Idaho, 53% of our children ages three and under are living in poverty or low-income homes. Government assistance programs don’t pay for diapers.

SIPH offers low-income families a supplemental supply of at least 50 diapers, per child each month, which only breaks down to about a week’s worth of supplies.

“As we head into Diaper Need Awareness Week, SIPH hopes to bring awareness to diaper need in southeast Idaho. Donations are always accepted and encouraged. Just $10 can be transformed into one supplemental supply of 50 diapers per month for an infant in need,” said Dana Solomon, Diaper Bank Program Coordinator.

Pocatello’s diaper bank can be found at the Southeastern Idaho Public Health department on 1901 Alvin Ricken Drive. For other diaper bank locations, click here.

“Individuals, businesses, schools, community organizations and places of worship can help by organizing diaper drives and fundraisers to support the local Diaper Bank,” said Solomon. “The diapers go out just as quickly as they come in, so we are looking for year-round partnerships and support to help us really make an impact on local families.”