Commissioners seek to raise awareness of the need for diapers

BLOOMFIELD — The Stoddard County commissioners signed a proclamation Monday declaring Sept. 23 through Sept. 29 as National Diaper Need Awareness Week.

Diaper need is the condition of not being able to afford a sufficient supply of clean diapers to keep babies and toddlers clean, dry and healthy.

John Fisher, Southeast Diaper Bank representative said, “Many parents struggling with diaper need miss an average of five days of work each month.” In effect, work loss causes an economic strain on Southeast Missouri’s workforce and economy.

The proclamation states that diaper need is a public health issue. Without enough diapers, babies and toddlers risk infections and health problems requiring medical attention.

Southeast Diaper Bank is working to ensure underserved communities have the diapers and period supplies they need to live a healthy, dignified life.

“We distribute over 30,000 diapers a month,” said Fisher. “The Missouri Coalition of Diaper Banks consists of eight total diaper banks.”

The Southeast Diaper Bank serves the following counties: Stoddard, Butler, Bollinger, Scott, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Dunklin, Mississippi and Cape Girardeau.

The Stoddard County Family Resource Center, 808 Specialty Dr., Suite B, in Dexter, is a partner of the Southeast Diaper Bank. Families can receive complimentary diapers, wipes, and menstrual supplies on a monthly basis from the Family Resource Center. No appointment is necessary.

It was learned that 20% of children in Missouri live below the Federal Poverty Line and adequate supply of diapers and menstrual hygiene products are not affordable. Diapers and menstrual hygiene products are essential items that are taxed as luxury items. Currently, Missouri has a 4.225% sales tax on diapers and feminine products.