VOLUNTEERS PACK DIAPERS TO BE DISTRIBUTED TO FAMILIES IN NEED. | PHOTO COURTESY WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA DIAPER BANK

Anyone with a newborn faces sticker shock the first time they try to buy diapers: A month’s supply can cost up to $100, according to the Western Pennsylvania Diaper Bank.

For that reason, 1 out of 2 families in the United States often have to forgo other essentials to keep babies clean, healthy and dry because diapers are not covered by federal SNAP benefits, according to The National Diaper Bank Network. In fact, the average baby uses 7,000 diapers before they’re potty trained, which takes a big bite out of families’ finances for years.

To provide support, the Diaper Bank partners with the Green Tree-based Global Links to distribute a month’s supply of diapers for free to families and caregivers of young children in need. The next drive-up distribution will be from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, April 27, at McKeesport Senior High School, 1960 Eden Park Blvd., McKeesport. Diaper sizes 1 to 6 will be available. Those seeking diapers will be asked what ZIP code they live in, but do not need to demonstrate need.

“It has never been more expensive to raise a child,” Cathy Battle, co-founder and executive director of the Western Pennsylvania Diaper Bank said in a release. “Diaper costs increased 25% over the last two years.”

Founded in 2012, the Diaper Bank now distributes diapers to 50 community partners (social service agencies, schools, libraries, hospitals and more) in Allegheny, Westmoreland and Fayette counties. In 2022, that amounted to 2.15 million diapers.

Global Links has been holding drive-up diaper distribution events since the summer of 2020. To date, eight events have been held.

Both the Diaper Bank and Global Links depend on volunteers to support their mission. You can learn how you can help with these agencies and about other volunteer opportunities in the region here.