Margate Declares National Diaper Need Awareness Week, Sheds Light on Crucial Community Issue

By Bryan Boggiano

The Margate City Commission declared the week of Sept. 18-24 National Diaper Need Awareness Week at their Sept. 6 meeting, bringing attention to the community’s hygiene and diaper need issues.

Being unable to afford a reliable supply of diapers for babies, toddlers, and others can lead to diaper need, affecting their cleanliness and overall health.

According to the city’s proclamation, one in two families struggle with product needs, while 48 percent delay changing a baby or toddler to extend diaper supply.

According to the proclamation, access to a reliable supply presents health and economic barriers.

Without a reliable supply or access, babies and toddlers are at risk for infections that can lead to increased treatment costs to their care providers.

Additionally, families may be unable to access childcare and early childhood education, which require a reliable daily or weekly supply. This also hampers a parent’s ability to work, making them unable to afford the needed products.

To alleviate the issue, organizations such as The Greater Fort Lauderdale Diaper Bank help equip community members with any needed materials.

Adora West, bank director, encouraged community members to reach out to the organization if they need help accessing any infant or period products, saying they are vital for the community’s overall health.

She said, “We are just trying to go throughout the Broward County district to raise awareness of the diaper need.”

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