The organization that exists to help Keys moms and families before, during and after pregnancy has launched its annual diaper drive that will run through Feb. 28 to help provide struggling families with an essential baby item.
Diaper are considered a significant, recurring expense that costs families an average of $80 to $100 per month. And prices have increased by over 20% since 2018, with newborns requiring up to 10 to 12 changes daily, according to the Institute for Research on Poverty.
For many families, this expense can be overwhelming, resulting in a need for diapers that affects one of every three families locally and nationwide, states a press release from the Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition.
Families without adequate diapers may be forced to change them less often, increasing the risk of diaper rash and infection. In addition, many child care centers require families to supply diapers, meaning a lack of diapers can prevent parents from working.
“When families don’t have enough diapers, it affects a baby’s health and a parent’s ability to work (as parents must provide day care centers with diapers for their children),” said Arianna Nesbitt of the coalition. “This drive helps ensure babies are healthy and parents have the support they need.”
Donors can purchase diapers and wipes directly from the coalition’s Amazon wish list. Monetary donations are also welcome through the fundraising platform Zeffy, with every dollar going toward diapers and other essential baby supplies. In addition, local businesses and organizations throughout Monroe County are hosting donation boxes where unopened packages of diapers can be dropped off. A list of the dropoff locations is on this page.
“Through this compassionate effort, we can make sure no family has to choose between buying diapers and covering other basic needs — because every baby deserves a healthy, happy start,” Nesbitt said.More information is at keyshealthystart.org or 305-293-8424.
Diaper drop-off locations
| Upper Keys | Middle Keys | Lower Keys |
| Purple Pineapple Boutique Islamorada library Coral Isle Church Key Largo library Caribbean Club The Catch Miss Monroe First Baptist Church-Key Largo | Kirk of the Keys Winn-Dixie, Big Pine Key Big Pine library Marathon library | Unity of the Keys Sweat Society Island Women’s Health St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Anytime Fitness Keys Pediatrics Key West library Tax Collector’s Office (Roosevelt) Tax Collector’s Office (Truman) Fausto’s Excel Chiropractic The Smith Law Firm Bella Luxe Makeup Lady Nails |
