Indiana Lawmakers and Diaper Bank Collaborate to Aid Families as House Leaders Spearhead Statehouse Collection Drive

In an effort to bring relief to families coping with the financial burden of child-rearing, Indiana House lawmakers are teaming up with the Indiana Diaper Bank for a philanthropic push this year. Just confirmed by bipartisan leaders, the coalition aims to gather diapers and diapering supplies to assist Hoosier families in need. House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) and House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) have set up a collection drive at the Statehouse slated to run through February, as per details shared by Indiana House Republicans.

The Indiana Diaper Bank, a trusted non-profit since 2017, has been instrumental in providing what is quite literally the bottom line for infant care. They've managed to consistently deliver diapers to families across the state, with a count of nearly 20 million diapers distributed to date. “We’re proud to partner with the Indiana Diaper Bank this session to support the vital work they do for Hoosier families," Huston said. "The cost of raising a child adds up quickly, and no baby should ever go without clean diapers. We’re grateful for the meaningful impact the Indiana Diaper Bank and its partners are making across our state,” Huston articulated in a statement obtained by Indiana House Republicans.

The initiative accepts donations of new or opened packages of diapers of all sizes, pull ups, wipes, diaper cream, and even clean cloth diapers. For those inspired to chip in, donation bins are handily located by the House Chamber entrance and the 4th Floor South Atrium at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. There’s also an option for monetary donations for those who want to contribute but can't physically drop off supplies.

GiaQuinta highlighted the stress and expense borne by new parents, noting the Diaper Bank's essential role as a safety net for both them and their babies. "It's expensive and stressful to be a new parent, and the Indiana Diaper Bank helps Hoosier parents keep their heads above water," GiaQuinta said. "The Indiana Diaper Bank acts as a critical safety net for Hoosier families and babies, and we couldn't be prouder to support their mission this year," GiaQuinta told Indiana House Republicans.

Leading the diaper bank, President and CEO Ashley Burns drives home the initiative's broader impact on health and the economy. "1 in 2 Indiana families are in diaper need. Indiana Diaper Bank distributes diapers through a partnership with other nonprofits throughout the state," said Burns. She further emphasizes the transformative effect clean diapers can have on a family's livelihood. "When babies have access to clean diapers, they are healthier, parents are better able to work and families are more stable. Addressing diaper need is a simple but powerful way to support the health and economic well-being of Indiana families," Burns acknowledged in a conversation with Indiana House Republicans.