EverThrive IL is supporting an effort led by our community partner Children’s Home and Aid to create a monthly diaper allowance for Illinois families. Diaper need is a serious challenge affecting more than 100,000 children in Illinois. EverThrive IL supported the legislation and recently signed on to a letter asking Governor Pritzker to include a publicly funded diaper allowance in the next budget. Illinois would become the third state in the nation, following California and Washington, to support families in this important way.
Diaper insecurity is an often overlooked problem. Infants and toddlers require an average of 10 diapers per day, with a monthly cost of $80 to $100. This creates significant financial strain for families, with many parents and caregivers being forced to make the unacceptable choice between paying rent or buying diapers for their child/children. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, diaper prices have increased by over 30%, adding to financial hardship for families—one in three families can’t afford diapers because of the high cost.
Assistance programs like WIC or SNAP do not cover this basic need. A lack of clean diapers can lead to increased irritation, diaper rash, and even UTIs for young children – one study estimated that providing clean diapers to a family could save up to $1500/year on medical costs. Diaper insecurity is also reported to increase parent/caregiver stress and is linked to postpartum depression. Learn more about making diapers more affordable for families.
Clean diapers are a basic need for children and their families. Here are two ways you can use your voice on this critical issue:
Send a letter to Governor J. B. Pritzker
Let’s keep Illinois children and their parents healthy and thriving!