DELAWARE COUNTY, PA — In a heartening display of community spirit, more than 10,000 diapers and other baby items were delivered to the Upper Darby Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Clinic on Tuesday. This was made possible by collection efforts from the offices of multiple state elected officials who represent parts of Delaware County, as well as several local branches of the Community YMCA of Eastern Delaware County.
State Senator Tim Kearney, who has led this diaper drive for three consecutive years, was joined by Senator Amanda Cappelletti, State Representatives Lisa Borowski and Heather Boyd, and staff members from the offices of multiple state representatives. Also present were Mike Ranck, President and CEO of Community YMCA of Eastern Delaware County, and Frances Sheehan, President of The Foundation for Delaware County.
This year’s collection marked a significant increase over previous years. “Every year our impact continues to grow thanks to the generosity of our constituents and neighbors,” said Senator Kearney. “In previous years we were able to collect three to five thousand diapers and baby items. This year, thanks to my wonderful state colleagues, and the Springfield, Upper Darby, Ridley, and Rocky Run YMCAs, we were able to expand our collection efforts which included more than a dozen drop-off locations throughout Delco.”
The drive collected various brands and sizes of diapers, baby wipes, and formula. In total, over 10,000 diapers, 50 packages of baby wipes, and dozens of cans of formula were collected. These will be donated to The Foundation of Delaware County to benefit local parenting families in need who receive services through Healthy Start, Nurse-Family Partnership, Maternity Care Coalition, or WIC.
The month-long collection period typically begins in mid-November and lasts until the week before Christmas. On the last day, participating offices and businesses help deliver the items to the Upper Darby WIC office. The Foundation for Delaware County then works to distribute the items throughout their network.
Frances M. Sheehan, President of The Foundation for Delaware County, expressed gratitude for the drive. “The expiration of pandemic-era relief programs combined with the effects of inflation means that many families are struggling to make ends meet. A single family can spend more than $800 a year on diapers alone. Having diapers donated means that families can use that money for food, medicine, housing, and other necessities,” she said.
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