Lydia O’Regan launched the Halifax Diaper Bank with the expectation of assisting a few individuals weekly.
However, the response to her grassroots initiative has been overwhelming, with approximately five families per day reaching out for diaper assistance due to financial struggles.
Describing a recent delivery, O’Regan shared, “I visited a woman last week whose child was roaming the house unclothed. Some resort to using pillowcases and towels, doing their best until payday.”
The diaper bank, established just three months ago, initially aimed to collect surplus diapers and unopened packs that couldn’t be donated to charities.
In a short span, O’Regan has supported hundreds and distributed thousands of diapers to those in need.
She highlighted the tough choices families face, such as prioritizing between essentials like food, rent, gas, and diapers for their kids.
Recognizing that many in need lack transportation, O’Regan established 11 drop-off locations in HRM, engaging friends and family to assist with donation deliveries.
One of her helpers, Rita-Clare LeBlanc, nearing the end of her maternity leave, emphasized the financial strain associated with baby essentials and the importance of supporting struggling families.
LeBlanc stressed, “Every parent deserves relief from worrying about where the next batch of diapers will come from.”
“Lydia’s dedication to the diaper bank is immense, and we all pitch in whenever possible,” she added.
Prior to the existence of the Halifax Diaper Bank, individuals could seek assistance from family resource centers or select food banks.
The Chebucto Family Centre noted a rising demand for diapers and baby formula, with ten diapers per distribution to manage requests and supplies effectively.
O’Regan offers entire diaper boxes as long as stock permits and utilizes social media to source specific brands or sizes when needed.
Expressing her commitment, O’Regan stated, “This project is a personal passion and close to my heart.”
Halima Marjany, an immigrant support worker aiding vulnerable newcomers, highlighted the financial stress faced by families setting up life in Canada, especially concerning diaper expenses.
She recounted distributing diapers to families from Syria and Ukraine, including a family with a disabled teenage son requiring specific diaper types.
Upon reaching out to O’Regan for help, Marjany received generous support, leading to emotional moments for grateful recipients.
Despite the overwhelming demand, O’Regan has no plans to expand beyond Facebook or formalize the initiative as a registered charity, aiming to balance her efforts with her job and family responsibilities.
Her Halifax apartment’s master bedroom is brimming with donated diapers from floor to ceiling, emphasizing the continuous need for support.
“The fulfillment I get from this work makes it all worthwhile,” O’Regan expressed.
MORE TOP STORIES