For families with babies, diapers are a necessity – but, for many Maine families, keeping enough on hand can be a serious financial challenge.
Maine Needs is launching a new statewide diaper fundraising and distribution partnership to help families experiencing diaper insecurity. During my conversation with Angela Stone, she explained that Maine Needs regularly receives requests for diapers from caseworkers, teachers, nurses, and street outreach teams.
Diapers can cost $80–$100 per month for just one baby, and there currently isn’t a federal or statewide program that consistently provides them. Providers have even reported families rationing diapers, which can lead to serious rashes and infections.
Maine Needs is partnering with Good Shepherd Food Bank to tackle the problem statewide. Maine Needs will purchase the diapers, while Good Shepherd Food Bank will distribute them through its network of more than 550 food banks across Maine!
The goal is to provide diapers for approximately 8,500 Maine babies living below 185% of the federal poverty line. The campaign estimates it will take $3.5–$4 million annually to meet that need.
A recurring donation of $33 per month can diaper one baby for a year, but donations of any amount are welcome! To donate or start a peer-to-peer fundraiser, visit givebutter.com/maineneedsdiapers.
Listen to our interview below to learn more!
