Diapers can cost over $100 every month for one child and diapers are becoming more difficult for Idaho families to afford, according to the Idaho Diaper Bank. In the last year, the Idaho Diaper Bank has seen a 33% increase in distribution.
The Idaho Diaper Bank strives to provide families struggling financially with relief by providing diapers to 45 distribution locations around Idaho where families can access diapers.
The increase in distribution means more families need help to access diapers. This year they are distributing around 25,000 more diapers per month than last year’s monthly average of 75,000 diapers.
“We have a lot of Ukrainians that have come in, African countries as well,” said Executive Director Traci Lofthus. “It is also inflation, gas prices, utility prices, rent, people that are really having issues with housing. Diapers are super expensive. If the child gets sick, they have to stay home and they lose wages. If they don't have enough money for diapers to give to a daycare, they have to stay home with that child because the daycare doesn't accept them without a change of diapers.”
They are the only diaper bank in Idaho, and they accept donations. They hope to offer distribution locations closer to eastern Idaho when they can increase their current capacity. Those in need of diapers can collect them at the several distribution locations found on their website.
“We're so happy that we can help so many of these families,” Lofthus said. “We diaper about 2,100 bottoms a month, but we also know that we're not meeting the need, not even in the treasure valley, let alone in Idaho and so for us, it is huge that we can do this and that we can provide for many families.”
For more information about donating and receiving diapers visit Idahodiaperbank.org.