The cost of diapers is taxing on vulnerable young families, especially those dealing with poverty. Diaper Banks are beginning to emerge in progressive communities to help address that need. Outside of food requests, diapers are probably another one of the biggest requests Food Banks receive. Last year, four Food Banks in California successfully received State funding to establish Diaper Banks in their communities.
Inspired by that example, Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAP OC), a local nonprofit organization that focuses on poverty alleviation sought similar funding. Senator Tom Umberg and Assemblymember Tom Daly submitted a budget request on behalf of the organization’s Food Bank. In July, the request was officially written into the California State budget of 2019-20.
“Working families in Orange County truly benefit from the services of the diaper bank, and will make an impact in the lives of those in need,” said Senator Thomas J. Umberg. “Each package of diapers can make a difference between a child being exposed to rashes, infections or other health issues. This program provides an effective, positive start in life, and increases the likelihood for an improved well-being in the future.”
Orange County will now be one of five communities in the state offering this service. The effort was met with success thanks to the tremendous support of the local community. Individuals signed petitions, wrote support letters and advocated on behalf of CAP OC’s Food Bank.
“For low-income parents trying to remain employed, something as basic as the inability to afford diapers can put them at risk of losing child care for their infants or toddlers, which can in turn put them at risk of not being able to go to work. By supporting our funding request on behalf of a diaper bank for Orange County, the Legislature and Governor will help make a small but meaningful difference in the lives of many local residents,” said Assemblymember Tom Daly (D—Anaheim).
“We are proud that we can now add this additional service to help bring diapers to our community in fulfilling our mission to eradicate poverty. Diapers are an essential commodity for any family, and this opportunity to provide this resource for the health and welfare of children and decrease the financial burden for families is essential. This will help us continue to do our work to end poverty in our region. We’re excited as plans are underway to launch this effort and to serve those in need,” says Gregory C. Scott, President & CEO of Community Action Partnership of Orange County.
Plans are currently underway to officially launch the Diaper Bank.
Senator Thomas J. Umberg represents the 34th Senate District, which includes the cities of Anaheim, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, Huntington Beach, Garden Grove, Long Beach, Los Alamitos, Midway City, Orange, Santa Ana, Seal Beach and Westminster. Umberg is a retired U.S. Army Colonel, former federal prosecutor and small businessman. He and his wife, Brigadier General Robin Umberg, USA (ret.), live in Orange County.
