Hoosier families new to utilizing programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Special Supplemental Foods Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) are often surprised to learn that these programs do not include providing one of the most basic and important resources families with infants and toddlers need. This is why every May, Heart of Indiana United Way works with our for-profit and non-profit friends along with volunteers to collect diapers and wipes.

Twenty-five percent of Madison County’s children and youth (below the age of 18) are under the age of five. Meaning one-fourth of our community’s children here are in diapers, being potty-trained, or recently potty-trained. And nearly one-fourth of Madison County children live below the poverty level and qualify for public benefits like SNAP and WIC.

Steven Zauderer, CEO of CrossRiver Therapy—serving children and families impacted by autism, is passionate about serving the underserved. In his recent blog about the diaper industry, he shared the latest data and research:

The disposable diaper industry brings in $71 billion a year.

Disposable diapers for a single baby cost $70 per month, or $840 a year.

On average, babies use around 6,000 diapers during their first two years of life.

Without SNAP and WIC providing this critical support, it’s no wonder families who are struggling financially are cutting back on necessities just to afford diapers for their children. And with the high cost of diapers and training pants, comes greater urgency to potty-train prior to children really being developmentally ready to do so. The pressure this creates can lead to frustration and emotional distress for parents and children, and in rare cases, abuse. Additionally, babies are more vulnerable to painful rashes and other health concerns when their diapers are not changed as often as needed. Helping families to have a sufficient diaper supply helps keep infants clean and healthy.

Help families with infants and oddlers by donating diapers and wipes through our Community Diaper Drive at these Madison County drop-off locations:

Cultured Urban Winery

Any First Merchants Bank location

Heart of Indiana Office (205 W. 11th Street, Anderson)

The Herald Bulletin

North Madison County Public Library

Any Old National Bank location

Open Door Health Services

Any Star Financial location

Or you can purchase diapers to be shipped directly to our office at Amazon.

For families seeking support, the following Madison County baby pantries are partnering with Heart of Indiana United Way and will be receiving diapers from the drive:

Alexandria Community Center 315 S. Harrison Street, Alexandria 765-724-7728

First Choice for Women 6 W. 8th Street, Anderson 765-393-3029

Frankton Food Pantry 206 Church Street, Frankton 765-754-8660

Operation Love Ministries 620 E. 21st Street, Anderson 765-644-2121

Lapel Community Food Pantry 925 Ford St. Lapel 765-534-3314

Little Miracles 2709 E. 38th Street, Anderson 765-606-7956

Elwood Food Pantry 208 S. Anderson Street, Elwood 765-552-5570

Salvation Army 1615 Meridian Street, Anderson 765-644-2538

The Baby Corner 2751 N. Scatterfield Rd, Anderson 765-642-2154

WIC 777 Broadway, Suite 7 Anderson 765-646-9272