Upon initiating the Halifax Diaper Bank, Lydia O’Regan anticipated assisting a small number of individuals weekly. However, the demand surpassed her expectations. The grassroots initiative has garnered significant interest, with O’Regan now providing diapers to approximately five families daily. These families reach out in desperation as they face financial challenges.
Recalling a recent delivery, O’Regan shared, “I visited a lady last week whose child was moving around the house without any clothes. I’ve heard of women resorting to using pillowcases and towels, doing their best to manage until payday.”
Established just three months ago, the diaper bank was conceived as a means to collect surplus diapers and unopened packs not suitable for donation to traditional charities. In a short span, O’Regan has supported hundreds of individuals, distributing thousands of diapers.
She emphasized the tough decisions families are forced to make, stating, “They’re torn between essential needs, holiday gifts, food, housing, gas, and diapers for their kids.”
Realizing that many seeking assistance lack transportation, O’Regan has established 11 drop-off locations in HRM, enlisting the help of friends and family for donation deliveries and pickups.
Among her supporters is her cousin, Rita-Clare LeBlanc, currently in the final weeks of her maternity leave. LeBlanc expressed gratitude for not needing aid herself but acknowledged the struggles faced by many families.
LeBlanc emphasized, “Every parent deserves to have the assurance of where their next pack of diapers is coming from. Lydia is doing remarkable work with the diaper bank, and we all pitch in whenever possible.”
Prior to the Halifax Diaper Bank, individuals could seek assistance from family resource centers or some food banks. The Chebucto Family Centre noted that diapers and baby formula are currently the most requested items, with demand escalating over the past few years.
The center typically distributes ten diapers at a time to balance supply and demand, which may last around two days in some cases. O’Regan offers entire boxes to families as long as supplies permit. For specific brands or sizes, she leverages her social network by posting requests on Facebook.
Describing the initiative as a personal passion project, O’Regan said, “It’s something that holds great significance for me.”
Halima Marjany, an immigrant support worker aiding vulnerable newcomers to Canada, shared stories of the impact of the diaper donations. She mentioned the challenges faced by many newcomers in managing expenses, especially when it comes to diapers.
Marjany recounted delivering diaper boxes to families from Syria and Ukraine, highlighting a family with a disabled teenage son requiring specific diaper types. O’Regan promptly provided a solution upon Marjany’s outreach.
Reflecting on the emotional impact, Marjany stated, “The mother was in tears when she received the generous donation.”
O’Regan