Date of Degree Completion
Spring 2024
Degree Type
Capstone - Open Access
Instructor/Advisor
Melissa Nemon
Abstract
Diaper need is a prevalent issue for families with young children throughout the country. one in two families in the United States, cannot afford enough diapers to keep their child clean, comfortable, and healthy (National Diaper Bank, 2021). Due to the lack of available resources in the community and safety net programs, families are at risk of health and social disparities. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Women, Infants, and Children Nutrition Program (WIC), and Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) are three government assistance programs, designed to help low-income families. This project looks at how lawmakers can utilize public benefits to support families with diaper need. My recommendation is for diaper financial assistance to be included in SNAP and WIC benefits. A $100 a month per child stipend would a reasonable for families to afford diapers for their children. I would also recommend funding for diaper distribution programs, that provide diaper assistance for families who may be experiencing financial hardship but are not qualified for SNAP and WIC benefits.
Recommended Citation
Laguerre, Kaleena Thompson, "Wiping Out: Living Diaper to Diaper" (2024). Community Engagement Student Work. 117.
https://scholarworks.merrimack.edu/soe_student_ce/117