HomeAid National Capital Region’s annual Builders for Babies Diaper Drive will run through June 18, having been kicked off with a donation of 10,000 diapers from Commonwealth Consultants Foundation toward a goal of 200,000.
As part of the social-safety-net effort, individuals, organizations and groups are encouraged to organize and host a diaper drive to help keep babies safe and dry.
“The cost of disposable diapers is over $1,000 a year per child, a considerable expense for families struggling to make ends meet,” officials said. “It can mean the difference between parents trying to stretch supplies by leaving diapers on their babies too long or reusing diapers, leading to painful diaper rash and discomfort.”
“This volunteer effort is special because it allows a wide range of people to organize, participate and make a real difference; whether you host a drive through a Girl Scout troop, school, book club, or company, it allows for people to come together and help their neighbors in a big way,” said Kristyn Burr, executive director and CEO of HomeAid National Capital Region. The organization is the philanthropic arm for local builders.
All donations collected will be distributed to HomeAid National Capital region’s non-profit partners.
Donations of diapers and wipes are critical because they cannot be purchased using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Diapers can be bought with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF); however, the funds are typically insufficient to buy diapers and pay other expenses.
Anyone interested in hosting a drive and in need of a collection box, flier or more information to get started should get in touch with Julianna Blaylock at (703) 953-3529 or [email protected].
Participating companies and individuals can also schedule a time to drop off donations in the Chantilly area or send diapers/wipes directly to the HomeAid National Capital Region office through the Amazon wish list.
