In The News

The Washington Post – January 27, 2019

“Even with the shutdown over, some federal employees still can’t afford diapers as they await paychecks” 

“Federal employees likely will have to wait until late this week to get paid after missing two paychecks in January. The pause in cash flow has left many reliant on food banks and unable to afford life’s basic necessities, including diapers, tampons, maxi pads and adult incontinence products, all of which are expensive and nearly impossible to do without.”

“At least 20 diaper banks across the country have provided diapers, feminine and incontinence products, formula and more to federal employees during the shutdown…”

“Diaper banks typically help low-income families who have trouble affording diapers and wipes, which are not covered by food stamps or the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, known as WIC.

Many diaper banks are treating the shutdown as they would a natural disaster — they are helping those in need immediately and will figure out if they need to do additional fundraising later. Many banks prefer monetary donations because they can buy diapers in bulk; they also often need larger-size diapers and pullups.”

Newsweek – January 20, 2019

“GoFundMe Launches Government Shutdown Direct Relief Fund for Federal Employees

Popular crowdfunding platform GoFundMe launched a “Government Shutdown Direct Relief Fund” yesterday for federal workers affected by the shutdown that has dragged on for 29 days with no resolution in sight…”

“Government workers, through no fault of their own, can’t afford to put diapers on their newborns,” said GoFundMe CEO Rob Solomon. “Employees of the most powerful nation in the world are being forced to work without pay and line up at diaper or food banks. It makes no sense.”

The site also pledged to provide donations to the National Diaper Bank Network, a nonprofit currently supplying diapers to federal workers who cannot afford them during the shutdown. 

Huffington Post – January 16, 2019

“Many Federal Employees Can’t Afford Diapers…” 

“After missing at least one paycheck, many federal workers can’t pay for basics like food and medication and are taking desperate measures to get those items. Affording diapers, a costly expense even for families earning paychecks, has become a particularly difficult problem. Going without them isn’t an option and there are no federal government programs that offer them.” 

CBN News – August 14, 2018

NPR’s Here & Now – April 19, 2018

NPR’s Marketplace – April 10, 2018