Boca Raton proclaims National Diaper Need Awareness Week; Diaper Bank says 1 in 2 families struggle

Mayor Scott Singer on Monday proclaimed Sept. 23–29, 2024, as National Diaper Need Awareness Week in Boca Raton and encouraged residents to donate to diaper banks and drives.

The proclamation, read aloud at the council workshop, cited national survey findings and economic estimates, including that roughly "1 in 2 families struggles with diaper need" and that buying diapers can consume about 14% of a low-wage family's post-tax income. "Without enough diapers, babies and toddlers risk infections and health problems that may require medical attention," the proclamation stated.

Dre Garcia, introduced at the lectern as president of the Diaper Bank Covering South Florida, accepted the proclamation and described local need: "We serve 3,200 children per month here in this community," Garcia said, urging donations and volunteer support and noting that diapers are not covered by food stamps or WIC.

The proclamation asks residents to support diaper banks, drives and organizations that distribute diapers to families in need. The proclamation was presented at the workshop; the Diaper Bank representative said the organization maintains waiting lists and would welcome additional community contributions.