GOLETA, Calif. — When a Goleta mother receives a box of diapers she can count on, the relief is immediate. Maria Arroyo says the Local Economic Assistance Program (LEAP) diaper bank has removed a major monthly expense for her family.
“It was 30 diapers twice a month,” Arroyo told us. “It was just a Godsend to be able to count on that.” She added that the brand of diapers didn’t matter; having enough for her child was what counted.
Diaper need is a national problem
The National Diaper Bank Network reports that one in two U.S. families struggles to provide enough diapers for their children. In Santa Barbara County, the shortage forces parents to make painful choices between clean diapers, food on the table, and rent.
LEAP CEO Lori Goodman explained, “Sometimes families need to choose between having clean diapers and having food on the table or paying rent.” By distributing diapers, LEAP hopes to ease that pressure and give families a little breathing room.
Impact in Santa Barbara County
Since its inception, LEAP has distributed more than 328,000 diapers and wipes throughout Santa Barbara County. The organization set a goal of collecting 20,000 diapers during September, which is National Diaper Need Awareness Month, but the drive continues year‑round.
Community engagement specialist Laura Costilla said, “The goal for the month of September is 20,000 diapers, but we will take them every month of the year.” Local partners such as Old Town Coffee and Deckers serve as drop‑off locations for donations.
Health and comfort for children
Goodman emphasized that adequate diaper supplies also protect a child’s health. “Anyone who’s had children and the child has a diaper rash — that is not fun for the parents,” she said. “And it’s really not fun for the child.” Families who cannot afford enough diapers often stretch supplies, leading to discomfort and potential skin issues.
“You might try to stretch it out a little bit,” Goodman noted. “And then that’s a child in pain.” By ensuring a steady flow of diapers, LEAP helps prevent such situations.
How the community can help
LEAP urges residents to donate diapers, wipes, and other baby essentials throughout September and beyond. The organization also provides information on additional diaper resources for families in need.
For those looking to support the effort, drop‑off sites are listed on LEAP’s website, and volunteers are always welcome to assist with collection and distribution.
As the cost of living continues to rise, community initiatives like the Goleta diaper bank demonstrate how local faith‑based and charitable groups can step in to protect families, uphold parental responsibility, and strengthen the fabric of the neighborhood.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
