Just as a vehicle can only bear so much weight before it stops moving forward, challenging life circumstances can overburden parents, making it hard for them to provide the best kinds of care and support. To prevent a breakdown in care, community organizations and neighbors can keep the heaviest loads from weighing families down. Legislation and investment through Senate Bill 21-27 Emergency Supplies for Colorado Babies and Families will help make that possible.
Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, one in three families reported needing more diapers. With increased unemployment due to the pandemic, the need likely continues even higher. Ensuring families have access to diapers supports multiple Protective Factors, including concrete support and parental resilience. Illuminate Colorado is proud to join over 70 organizations in support of Senate Bill 21-27. The bill would provide $2 million in funding in both 2021 and 2022 for nonprofit distribution centers to purchase and provide diapering essentials (diapers, wipes, and diaper creams) to low-income families across the state.
Parents report reusing disposable diapers and using plastic bags or toilet paper when they run out of money for diapers. These “alternatives” lead to painful rashes and health complications, potentially causing infants and toddlers to become more fussy and more likely to cry. Increased infant crying has been found to be associated with increased rates of abusive head trauma, the leading cause of physical child abuse. An adequate supply of diapers is a tangible way of reducing parenting stress, a critical factor influencing child health and development. SB21-27 will support Colorado families’ health and economic security.
According to the National Diaper Bank Network, it costs at least $80 per month to diaper a child. SB21-27 is especially cost-effective as the diapering supplies would be purchased in bulk. While some families may have resources to drive to a warehouse club or supermarket to buy diapers in bulk, some families located in resource deserts may be limited to convenience stores where diapers come in smaller packages with a much higher average price per diaper. This bill will increase financial security of families, as well as support child care access because families are typically required to supply eight disposable diapers a day for their child to attend child care.
Interested in Supporting SB21-27
Here’s how to take action:
- Share your personal stories on how diaper expenses impacted your family,
- Share on social media pass SB21-027 #CoverEveryBum #DiaperNeed,
- Share Wee Cycle’s Virtual Diaper Drive to raise awareness of diapering needs, and
- Email womenslobbyofco@gmail.com for an Action Kit.
Review the 2021 Policy Agenda
Download the 2021 Illuminating Policy Agenda with key highlighting specific protective factors each policy builds in Colorado.
Use the Illuminate Colorado Bill Tracker to stay up to date on legislation in Colorado strengthening families, including Senate Bill 21-27 Emergency Supplies for Colorado Babies and Families.
