Baby2Baby, a nonprofit organization founded by Kelly Sawyer Patricof and Norah Weinstein, has been working to address the ongoing issue of diaper need in the United States. The organization aims to provide essential baby items, including diapers, to families in need. The high cost of diapers, which can range from $80 to $100 per month per baby, presents a significant financial challenge for low-income families, with some families spending up to 14% of their after-tax income on diapers.
The demand for diapers has reached an all-time high, with nearly half of families in the US struggling to afford this basic necessity. Many families are forced to make difficult decisions, such as choosing between buying diapers or putting food on the table. The inability to afford diapers can have a severe impact on a mother’s mental health, especially during the postpartum period. Additionally, the requirement for diapers at daycare can prevent parents from dropping off their children, further perpetuating a cycle of poverty.
In an effort to combat the diaper crisis, Baby2Baby has partnered with the Department of Health and Human Services and Huggies to expand its maternal care kit program. The organization funded a pilot program to deliver supplies to new mothers immediately after giving birth, with the goal of supporting vulnerable families across the country. Huggies has provided a generous multimillion-dollar grant to triple the reach of the program, allowing Baby2Baby to distribute kits across 10 states this year. Celebrity ambassadors, including Ciara, Kelly Rowland, and Olivia Wilde, have joined the initiative to raise awareness and support the expansion of the program.
In addition to providing diapers and maternal care kits, Baby2Baby has taken a multifaceted approach to tackling the diaper crisis. The organization has built its own diaper manufacturing system, allowing them to produce diapers for 80% less than retail prices and distribute five times as many. Baby2Baby has also advocated for the removal of sales tax on diapers, successfully eliminating the tax in California and prompting 10 other states to follow suit. However, there are still 26 states that tax diapers, and Baby2Baby continues to work towards removing this financial burden for families in need.
The widespread need for diapers in the United States highlights the financial struggles faced by many families, particularly low-income households. The diaper crisis not only impacts children but also has repercussions on maternal mental health and maternal mortality rates. Baby2Baby’s efforts to provide essential baby items, address diaper need, and advocate for policy changes demonstrate a commitment to supporting families and reducing financial barriers to accessing basic necessities. Through strategic partnerships with government agencies, corporations, and celebrities, Baby2Baby continues to expand its reach and make a positive impact in communities across the country.
