Milwaukee Diaper Mission marks milestone: 1 million free diapers given to families in need

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- More and more, families are struggling to afford diapers for their kids. This is happening across the country.

Milwaukee Diaper Mission is marking a major milestone -- one million free diapers given to families in need, in just three years.

"I had no clue we would make it here this quickly," said Executive Director Meagan Johnson.

Milwaukee Diaper Mission was founded back in 2020.

"Back then, we were distributing about 15,000 diapers per month, which was a lot at the time. Now we're distributing about 100,000 diapers per month."

Since its inception, Milwaukee Diaper Mission's capacity has increased, and so has the need in the community.

"We know that one in two families in the U.S. struggles to afford diapers. That's 47% of all families with young children having to choose between food, bills, and diapers on a weekly or monthly basis."

To celebrate the milestone, Milwaukee Diaper Mission is teaming up with volunteers and Hayat Pharmacy for a drive-up diaper giveaway. 

"This is a huge milestone," said Hashim Zaibak of Hayat Pharmacy. "One million diapers. That's a lot of diapers. Thats tens of thousands of children that benefited from this beautiful organization."

"The Milwaukee Diaper Mission is critical to meeting the basic needs of Milwaukee County," said Shakita LaGrant McClain, executive director of Milwaukee County Health and Human Services. 

Shakita Lagrant McClain has a message for families in need.

"I want you to know that we are here. Milwaukee Diaper Mission is here, and even if you just call 211 -- let's say you don't know where to go, they're gonna help get you connected."

For more information on the resources provided by Milwaukee Diaper Mission, click here.