Making a Difference: Supporting Families through Diaper Donation

A small team from Arc Mercer’s Campus Day Program spent their afternoon at The Maker’s Place. This is a faith-based diaper bank and resource center located in Trenton, New Jersey. Their task was simple but critical: count, bundle, and package diapers. These preparations ensure that diapers are ready for distribution to local families. The volunteers transformed piles of loose diapers into neat bundles, creating enough for hundreds of diaper changes.

Why Diapers Matter

Diapers are essential for a baby’s health. They are just as crucial as food and shelter. However, nearly 1 in 2 U.S. families with young children struggle to afford enough diapers. This statistic comes from the National Diaper Bank Network’s 2023 Diaper Check study. The study emphasizes that diaper insecurity can push parents to skip work or daycare. Furthermore, it exposes infants to preventable health issues.

The Maker’s Place Mission

Founded in 2018, The Maker’s Place envisions a community where every baby has access to adequate diapers. Their goals include ensuring that every child celebrates their first birthday and every parent connects with a network of mutual support. The organization believes everyone should be a maker in their own life and community.

Here are some highlights of their mission:

• Distributes free disposable diapers through its monthly “Diaper Depot” appointment system.

• Operates complementary programs such as Formula Depot, Swap Shop (children’s clothing), Book Depot, YOUFirst maternal-wellness groups, and EmpowerHer period-product distribution.

• Relies on volunteers to staff distribution sites and assemble diaper bundles.

  
  

How Arc Mercer Contributes

Community inclusion is a cornerstone of Arc Mercer’s Day Program. Hands-on service projects like this one give consumers the chance to practice teamwork, fine motor skills, and contribute to their community.

These activities also provide Arc Mercer consumers with opportunities to build new relationships within the community. They gain pride from actively participating in a larger mission that supports families in need.

The Impact of Collaboration

The partnership between The Maker’s Place and Arc Mercer is still new, but it shows great promise. For The Maker’s Place, having reliable volunteers, even for short shifts, significantly helps. There is a high volume of diapers that need bundling and distribution each month.

For Arc Mercer, these volunteer visits intentionally aim to build new community connections benefiting both the organization and its consumers. Each visit offers hands-on experiences where participants can develop work-readiness skills. They also build confidence and enjoy a sense of purpose by contributing to a cause that supports families in need.

How You Can Help

Support families in need by donating to The Maker’s Place. Just $25 provides a one-month supply of diapers for a local baby. Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of families struggling with diaper insecurity.

Join the Movement

By supporting initiatives like The Maker's Place, you become a part of a broader movement that strives for community health. Together, we can ensure that every child grows up with access to basic necessities. The challenges faced by families are real, but with your help, we can create a supportive environment that uplifts everyone.

In conclusion, the impact of community service is profound. It fosters connections and strengthens the fabric of society. Join us in making a difference today, as every small act contributes to a larger mission. Thank you for your consideration!