Last year, the Diaper Bank began distributing diapers at the Ecumenical Food Pantry in Newcastle, having raised a generous supply of diapers through a local drive combined with a donation from United Way.

This year, from Mother’s Day (May 8) through Father’s Day (June 19), the Diaper Bank will collect diapers and donations in churches throughout the area.

"We have been buying diapers regularly for more than a year. While we realize we cannot supply all of each child's weekly diaper needs we do know that each diaper we buy helps a family which is struggling to make ends meet while trying to keep their infant or toddler clean and healthy," says Pastor Kelly Harvell of Round Pond and New Harbor United Methodist Churches.

Many people are unaware that government assistance programs — such as food stamps and WIC — do not provide funding for diapers, a basic necessity for babies. Disposable diapers cost about $75 per month, per baby; more if not bought in bulk.

“Babies without diapers can’t go to daycare, and infants can’t attend preschool. It’s critical,” said Sally Crane of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

The Diaper Bank helps address diaper needs in the Midcoast area. Volunteers and local churches collect, store, and distribute diapers at the Ecumenical Food Pantry. To obtain diapers for a child, families with infants newborn to 3 years old who qualify for Maine Care or Medicaid can stop by on Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11 a.m. The Food Pantry is located in the basement of the Second Congregational Church, 51 Main Street, in Newcastle. For more information, contact Cathy Hopkins (563-1668) or Barb Williams (563-1931).

The following local churches will be participating in this second annual Diaper Drive and welcome the greater community’s help: Damariscotta Baptist Church, Midcoast Friends Meeting, New Harbor and Round Pond United Methodist Churches, Second Congregational Church, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, and Water of Life Lutheran Church.

Bags of diapers, cash donations, and checks made out to “Damariscotta Baptist Church” with “Diaper Drive” on the memo line can be brought to any of the participating churches or mailed to the Diaper Drive care of Damariscotta Baptist Church at 4 Bristol Rd, P.O. Box 248, Damariscotta, ME 04543.