Huddle Up Moms (HUM), a Roanoke-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting mothers, has announced the launch of its Huddle Up Diaper Distribution & Lifeline Endeavor (Project H.U.D.D.L.E), an initiative to establish Southwest Virginia’s first and only certified diaper bank. This effort seeks to address the urgent and growing need for diapers and essential baby items in the region, where over one-third of families face diaper poverty.
Since launching the Support Shop in 2022 to provide diapers, formula, and baby supplies free of charge, HUM has distributed tens of thousands of diapers. However, the demand has far exceeded the nonprofit’s current capacity. On average, HUM’s Support Shop assists over 125 mothers monthly, but this number only scratches the surface of the need in the Roanoke area.
The Growing Need for Diapers in Southwest Virginia Diaper poverty is a widespread but often overlooked crisis in the region: Diapers cost families up to $100 per month per child, consuming 15% of a typical family’s monthly budget. National statistics show 28% of Virginia families have skipped meals to afford diapers, and 1 in 3 families in Southwest Virginia struggles with diaper need. Programs like WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) do not cover diapers, leaving many families without adequate resources.
Over 700,000 residents in Southwest Virginia live more than two hours from the nearest certified diaper bank. “Diaper need is a hidden crisis in our community,” said HUM Executive Director Jaclyn Nunziato. “Families who struggle to afford diapers face challenges that directly impact their children’s health and well-being. We’re committed to bridging this gap by creating a sustainable, long-term resource for Southwest Virginia.”
Project H.U.D.D.L.E: Building a Diaper Bank for the Region
Through the Project H.U.D.D.L.E campaign, HUM is aiming to raise $120,000 to fund the initial establishment of the diaper bank. This funding will cover:
- An initial bulk diaper purchase to address immediate needs.
- Association fees to become a certified diaper bank.
- One year of storage and facility capacity.
- Shelving and infrastructure to store and distribute diapers efficiently.
Once operational, the Southwest Virginia Diaper Bank will ensure that every family in the region has access to this critical resource, alleviating financial stress and improving the well-being of the most vulnerable residents. “We’ve seen incredible community support so far, but the need is growing faster than we can meet it,” Nunziato added. “That’s why we’re calling on the community to come together to make this diaper bank a reality. Together, we can keep babies clean, dry, and healthy while supporting families in need.”
You can learn more and help by making a financial contribution online at
https://huddleupmoms.networkforgood.com/projects/220614-project-huddle
About Huddle Up Moms
Huddle Up Moms is a nonprofit organization based in Roanoke, Virginia, dedicated to
empowering mothers through community, education, and resources. The
organization strives to improve the physical, emotional, and social well-being of
mothers and their families through various support programs and initiatives,
including the Support Shop, which offers free diapers and baby supplies to families in
need.
To learn more about the Project H.U.D.D.L.E initiative and how you can support this
vital cause, visit www.huddleupmoms.org or contact info@huddleupmoms.org.
