Babies Need Bottoms Diaper Bank reaches a distribution milestone

BUNCOMBE COUNTY, N.C. (WLOS) -- Babies Need Bottoms Diaper Bank, a nonprofit diaper bank that serves Western North Carolina counties, just reached a milestone. According to a March 23 news release, the nonprofit just surpassed three million diapers distributed to those in need in WNC. GREAT MOTHER MARCH 500 MILE TREK FROM ASHEVILLE TO WASHINGTON BEGINS "Reaching three million diapers is a testament to the strength and compassion of our community," said Meagan Lyon Leimena, CoExecutive Director of Babies Need Bottoms, in the release. "Every diaper represents dignity for a child and relief for a caregiver. Together, we're making sure families across WNC feel supported, seen, and cared for." The release said the milestone comes as many caregivers are still recovering from Helene and facing deepening gaps in public assistance programs. Since 2017, Babies Need Bottoms has worked with local partners, volunteers and donors to provide diapers, wipes, hygiene items and infant formula, the release said. Since diapers are not covered by federal assistance programs like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Women, Infants and Children (WIC), this support is vital for families working to just make ends meet, the release said. NEW COMMUNITY-CENTERED INITIATIVE AIMS TO OFFER FREE THEMED PLAY FOR ALL AGES Babies Need Bottoms reports an urgent need for preemiesize diapers, as requests from partner agencies have outpaced what the diaper bank can keep on its shelves ever since Hurricane Helene devastated the region. "Newborns and new parents need extra care," Leimena said in the release. "Supporting Babies Need Bottoms is one way to care for our smallest community members -- and the caregivers who are doing their best to provide for them." In response to rising community need, Babies Need Bottoms has opened a new Volunteer Hub and hired a dedicated volunteer coordinator. It is also actively recruiting volunteers, the release said. The organization invites the public to get involved by learning more about diaper need, becoming a volunteer, or making a donation at www.babiesneedbottoms.org.