NC North Carolina News

Charlotte-area parents of young children who have been struggling to get the things they need for their babies now know they’ll be able to get help in the near future, as the Diaper Bank of North Carolina will open a branch in the city.

"The opening of the Greater Charlotte branch is the culmination of several years of planning and preparation,” Michelle Old, founder of the Diaper Bank of North Carolina, told WCNC Charlotte. “We are excited to move toward our vision of addressing personal hygiene needs across the state.” 

The branch is expected to open by the end of April. The Diaper Bank will partner with other organizations in the region as they work to distribute diapers, formula and other essentials. 

Although the name implies that the group serves only babies and young children, the Diaper Bank also collects and distributes feminine hygiene items and incontinence supplies for adults, according to the agency’s website. The group has locations across the state, including Research Triangle Park, the Triad and Lower Cape Fear.

The announcement drew praise from many in the local Charlotte area.

"Bringing a diaper bank to the greater Charlotte community has been a labor of love for us at Smart Start,” Smart Start CEO Jake House told WCNC Charlotte. “This valuable resource will have a demonstrable impact on the community and the families we serve.” 

The Diaper Bank of North Carolina has operated in the Charlotte area since July 2021, distributing hygiene products to Mecklenburg and surrounding counties, but the new facility will give the organization a permanent presence in the Charlotte region to increase support for neighbors in need. 

The Diaper Bank says that statistics indicate one out of every four individuals reports difficulty paying for the hygiene products the group distributes. Adult incontinence products and some baby essentials are not covered by SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) or WIC (Women, Infants and Children).