• It is reported that nearly one half (47%) of families nationwide cannot afford to provide sufficient supply of diapers for their families. (National Diaper Bank Network)
• Lack of diapers also leads to missed days of childcare, missed days of work for parents, as well as physical and mental health issues.
• Infants require up to 12 diapers per day, which costs an estimated $70 to $80 per month per baby. 
• The millions in federal food funding provided as pandemic relief does not allow for the purchase of diapers for families in need.
• Diaper purchases are also NOT permitted within the remit of SNAP benefit allowances.

MASSCAP D3RP UPDATE

For the first time in history, the federal government is supporting the overwhelming need for diapers across the country through the Diaper Distribution Demonstration and Research Pilot run by the Office of Community Services in the Administration for Children and Families. The MASSCAP Diaper Distribution Program includes distribution of at least 3.5 million diapers plus wipes through a hub and spoke model that includes 15 Community Action Agencies and Diaper Banks in MA and CT over a two-year period.

After 6 months of distribution:

• Approximately 1.3 million diapers distributed so far
• Approximately 10,000 packs of wipes distributed
• +1,600 families reached
• Nearly 75% of diaper program children served identify as Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish ethnicity
• +40% of families also participate in SNAP food benefits
• +37% of families have an annual income under $15K
• Nearly 50% of families feel like they do not currently have enough diapers to change their children as often as they would like

It's diaper pick up day! Smiles for mom and baby!

Unloading the diaper delivery at the North Shore Community Action Programs Hub.

Mothers picking up diapers and wipes for their babies.

--Excerpt from a thank you letter from a North Shore Program participant

Join us on May 2 to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of Community Action. Learn more and register here.

Need help or know someone who does? Find your Agency or contact us at info@masscap.org

Need help staying warm, safe and healthy in your home? Heating Help is here. Visit www.heatinghelpma.org for more info.

Tax Season is here! Need help accessing the new Child and Family Tax Credit or increased Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)? Free tax prep at Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites

Looking for Affordable, Accessible, High Quality Child Care? Visit Early Education & Care

Looking for a job in Early Education? Visit Early Education & Care

Our Mission

To strengthen, unify, and advocate with the Community Action Statewide Network to advance economic, racial, and social justice and to create communities where everyone thrives.

Our Vision

All MA residents will prosper and thrive through equitable opportunity and resources to meet their basic needs, enjoy economic mobility, and build strong and inclusive communities.

The Community Action Network is strong and effective, known for its valuable work and excellent service delivery, and is an advocate and leading voice in the fight to end poverty and inequality.

Core Values

Equity • Inclusivity • Collaboration

Find your Agency

There are 23 Community Action Agencies in Massachusetts serving virtually every city and town in the state.  To locate the agency in your area and learn more about the programs they offer, click here.

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