Diaper distribution pilot grant set up to help needy families

Diapers alone can cost 8% of a person's total income if they are making the federal minimum wage. (Courtesy photo)

The Office of Community Services at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently announced its third cohort of Diaper Distribution Pilot grant recipients during National Diaper Need Awareness Week.

The New Hampshire Community Action Partnership was awarded a pilot demonstration grant to expand existing diaper distribution services through the robust network of anti-poverty services that the OCS already provides through the Community Services Block Grant. Only seven states across the country received a grant in the third cohort.

The goal of the Diaper Distribution Grant is to ensure families in our community have the resources to meet their diaper needs. This program will allow families to learn about diaper education and will provide enough diapers to keep their children healthy. This program will be open to families in New Hampshire; the enrollment will vary by location and diaper availability.

NHCAP applied for the demonstration project because diapers are essential for the health and well-being of babies and toddlers. Diapers alone can cost 8% of a person's total income if they are making the federal minimum wage, and parents and caregivers who don't have enough diapers often can't send their children to childcare. This leads to missed days at work and school, missed early education opportunities for toddlers, and an increased likelihood of painful rashes and infections. A lack of diapers is not only a public health issue; it is a formidable obstacle to economic mobility for families with low incomes.

The New Hampshire Community Action Partnership's (NHCAP) mission is to reduce barriers to help clients improve their economic stability and well-being through education, advocacy, and partnerships. Using the $1,193,846 awarded for the Diaper Distribution Pilot, NHCAP will distribute diapers and supplies throughout the state. Regional distribution centers will provide families across New Hampshire with convenient access to services regardless of location.

For more information, please visit capnh.org.