• Recent studies show that 36% of MA families could not afford enough diapers during the pandemic even with federal stimulus payouts. (Study in Health Equity via researchers from University of Vermont, Greater Boston Food Bank, and University of Maryland)
• 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.
• 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. We are grateful to be a part of this pilot!

Unloading the first diaper delivery off the truck at Citizens for Citizens in Fall River, MA.

The team at Citizens for Citizens in Fall River, MA is happy to receive their diapers and wipes, and they are busy getting ready for implementation. They will distribute to their own client families as well as to neighboring Community Action Agencies and Diaper Banks.

The first delivery in the warehouse for North Shore Community Action Programs in Peabody, MA. Lots of diapers and wipes for the North Shore region!

“Hopefully this will relieve some of the burden for them and take some of the stress off the family, but folks are ecstatic,” Liz Berube, Executive Director, Citizens for Citizens, observed. “They actually can’t believe it and think it’s a dream come true.”

“So much of the brain growth happens in those first three years, almost 80%,” Janet Stolfi Alfano, Executive Directors, The Diaper Bank of Connecticut, noted. “We know creating an environment where basic needs are met will have lifelong benefits on that child.”

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

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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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