When Diapers Run Out
New parents often take a good supply of diapers for granted. They may roll their eyes or complain about the cost, but, in the end, what do you do? You need diapers; you buy diapers.
But costs keep going up. And it’s becoming harder for many parents to just shrug their shoulders and make the purchase anyway.
In fact, according to the National Diaper Bank Network, almost half of families with young children struggle to afford enough diapers to keep their children clean, dry, and healthy. Can you imagine trying to decide if you can afford to change your baby’s wet diaper because you only have a few diapers left and you know you’ll have to change a dirty one soon?
Not having enough diapers is more than an inconvenience for parents. Most of us know that babies can develop painful rashes if left too long in diapers that need changed. Studies show that when families don’t have enough diapers, babies are more likely to develop not only rashes but also urinary tract infections and potentially other illnesses.
It makes sense that babies in diapers that need changing aren’t able to sleep as well. But poor sleep can actually hinder a baby’s motor and cognitive development – and that can have profound impacts down the road.
Did you know that some moms say facing a lack of diapers is more stressful than facing a lack of food? Imagine the stress not only for the mom but also for the baby and other family members when a mom must make this type of choice.
This holiday season, One by One is sponsoring a diaper drive to help meet this need for moms enrolled in our mentoring program.
We’re asking businesses to collect diapers, wipes, or $25 Walmart gift cards that we can provide to our moms in need. Businesses who are interested in participating can email Cindy for more information. Individuals who want to help can donate items or can donate funds toward our diaper drive here or by visiting our website at www.onebyoneusa.org.
Moms in our mentoring program commit to meeting with a One by One mentor at least once a month throughout their pregnancies and their babies’ early years. Mentors provide friendship, support, parenting education information, child development information, life skills lessons, and connections to community resources that moms need. They also share the love of Jesus with our moms. And providing diapers and wipes to our moms in need is a wonderful way to provide material support.
As you consider how you’re giving back this holiday season, consider donating to provide diapers and wipes to moms. It’s an easy way to help moms feel loved, less stressed, and supported. Donate here. If you want to do more, consider becoming a One by One mentor. We need Christian women willing to mentor moms in-person or virtually in English and in Spanish. Interested? Click here for more information.