Mother’s Day Diaper Drive, organized by the group Mothers’ Helpers, is underway until May 31 to support local mothers with infants and toddlers in Santa Barbara County.
“As the cost of living continues to rise, many families are struggling to afford basic essentials, especially diapers, which can cost $80 to $100 per month per child,” organizers of the drive said.
“In fact, one in two U.S. families with young children struggles to afford enough diapers to keep their baby clean, dry, and healthy, according to the National Diaper Bank Network,” Mothers’ Helpers reports.
Unlike food, diapers are not covered by most government assistance programs. Mothers’ Helpers urges the community to step in and help bridge this gap by donating diapers and wipes, or making a financial contribution “to ensure every baby has what they need to stay clean, healthy and thrive.”
“Diapers are a basic need, but for many families, they’re a constant source of stress,” said Michelle Erickson, executive director of Mothers’ Helpers. “This drive is about showing parents they’re not alone; and giving babies the strong, healthy start they deserve.”
Community members can participate by:
● Donating new packages of diapers and wipes at any designated Diaper Collection Site, including all fire stations in Montecito
● Giving financially to help Mothers’ Helpers purchase diapers and other essentials to meet growing demand
● Purchasing diapers through the organization’s Amazon Wish List, with items shipped directly to Mothers’ Helpers for distribution
Donations will go directly to local families in need through Mothers’ Helpers’ Everyday Essentials Program.
Donations are also accepted along with gently used baby items, 2-4 p.m. Sundays at Mothers’ Helpers’ Support Center, 160 N. Fairview Ave. No. 3, Goleta.
Additional drop-off locations are available on the website and local businesses will be announced throughout the drive.
Those interested in hosting a donation box at their business can contact Lauren Weiner at lauren@mothershelpers.org or call 805-268-7123.
“Every diaper donated makes a meaningful difference, helping reduce financial stress, improve child health, and allow parents to focus on what matters most: caring for their children,” campaign organizers said.
Mothers’ Helpers provides essential baby items to families in need in Santa Barbara County.
“We gather baby items from families who no longer need them and distribute them to those who do, alleviating financial stress and allowing parents to focus on what matters most, nurturing their children,” the organization said.