(Ogden, UT) – Just like food, diapers are a basic necessity for infants that comes at a significant cost for families. In an effort to increase support for low-income residents in Weber and Morgan counties, the Weber-Morgan Health Department is partnering with the Utah Diaper Bank to provide free diapers to participants of the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. 

The partnership formalizes a service that has been a “little hit and miss, depending on diaper availability,” says director Jarelyn Cox, who oversees the federally funded nutrition education and supplemental food program for pregnant women, new moms and children under age 5. 

“Even though it is not part of the WIC program, the cost of diapers is one of the most common concerns for our participants” Cox says. “In the past we have made referrals to other agencies, this partnership helps us address the great need we see in this community.”

The agreement allows for regular monthly shipments from the Utah Diaper Bank, a nonprofit organization that has been providing diapers to Utah shelters and service organizations since 2013. The Weber-Morgan Health Department will pick up the diapers monthly and distribute them to WIC participants during their regular appointments.

It’s estimated that families spend around $70 each month for diapers. Cox says that the collaboration helps both agencies reach an important vulnerable population in the community. 

“By working together, we can create a more supportive environment for our families,” she added.

MEDIA CONTACT: Lori Buttars, Public Information Officer, 801-399-7114 or lbuttars@webercountyutah.gov

For more information on the WIC program, see https://www.webermorganhealth.gov/services/wic-program/

For more information about the Utah Diaper Bank, go to https://www.utahdiaperbank.org/about-us

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