Diapers at the Kimberly-Clark Diaper Bank on Sept. 19, 2023. PC: Fox 11 Online
APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A new partnership between two nonprofits in the Fox Valley is aiming to meet the needs of more families.
United Way Fox Cities and Jake’s Network of Hope announced Monday the unification of their diaper banks under one location. The newly co-operated diaper bank will be known as the Kimberly-Clark Eastern Wisconsin Diaper Bank.
Officials say this collaboration will pool the organizations’ resources and expertise, allowing community members in need greater access to diapers, as well as period and adult incontinence products.
“Diaper Need Awareness Week highlights the fact that we all know someone who struggles to afford essential hygiene items,” Scott Sawinski, executive director of Jake’s Network of Hope, in a news release. “The Kimberly-Clark Eastern Wisconsin Diaper Bank strives to make a significant impact in the lives of our families and neighbors to help supplement the hygiene needs in our community.”
The decision to merge the two diaper banks comes in response to findings from the 2023 Diaper Check:
- 47% of families are struggling to afford diapers.
- Most childcare providers require a day’s supply of disposable diapers, causing parents and caregivers to miss work.
- A quarter of families with children miss an average of five days of work per month because they cannot afford enough diapers.
Network of Hope is now co-located at United Way Fox Cities Hub at VPI’s Kensington production facility. Jake’s Network of Hope team will oversee the diaper bank’s daily operations, while United Way Fox Cities will coordinate and manage the packing opportunities for community volunteers and corporate partners.
“United Way Fox Cities is truly excited about our new collaboration with Jake’s Network of Hope,” said Lisa Kogan-Praska, president & CEO of United Way Fox Cities, in a news release. “By combining our talents and resources, we can serve more families and have an even greater impact across our region.”
National Diaper Need Awareness Week will take place September 23-29.
The Kimberly-Clark Eastern Wisconsin Diaper Bank is hosting an open house September 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend this event at The Hub, located at 110 N. Kensington Dr. in Appleton. Partners and community members are invited to help repack diapers and can enter to win a door prize.
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