New York State Senator Hosts Successful Diaper Drive to Support Local Families
On December 10, 2025, New York State Senator Shelley B. Mayer organized a diaper drive as part of her annual holiday gathering, demonstrating a commitment to tackling essential needs within the community. The event, held at her holiday party, saw an impressive turnout, resulting in the collection of 5,867 diapers for the Sharing Shelf in Port Chester, a key partner in the efforts to support the Westchester County Diaper Bank. This year’s collection marks a significant increase from the 2,485 diapers raised in the previous year, highlighting the growing community engagement around this crucial issue.
The significance of this initiative is underscored by alarming statistics from the National Diaper Bank Network, which indicated that in 2024, 46% of families with children under the age of four experienced difficulties affording diapers. This figure reflects a troubling trend of increasing hardship, with the percentage rising from 33% in 2017. In New York alone, families typically spend between 0 and 0 per month on diapers, an expense that is not covered by government assistance programs such as SNAP or WIC, placing an additional financial burden on struggling households.
The implications of diaper insecurity extend beyond financial strain, impacting emotional well-being and family dynamics. Mothers facing challenges in securing diapers often report feelings of isolation and reluctance to seek help due to fears of social stigma. A staggering 71% of mothers with diaper insecurity expressed such sentiments compared to just 31% among those who do not face this issue, underlining the urgent need for community support initiatives.
In a statement following the diaper drive, Senator Mayer expressed her gratitude for the community’s response, stating, “I am so proud and deeply grateful to live in a community that consistently steps up for friends and neighbors in need. The continued generosity displayed at my holiday party reaffirms my belief that small actions can significantly improve lives.” Mayer emphasized the importance of collective efforts to mitigate the challenges faced by families struggling with essential needs, especially during periods of unprecedented economic pressure.
Deborah Blatt, the executive director of the Sharing Shelf, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are thrilled to benefit from Senator Mayer’s generous drive again this year. Diaper need is a reality for a growing number of Westchester families. According to the Urban Institute, more than 8 million diapers are needed to meet the demands of low- and moderate-income families in the region.” Blatt hopes that this drive will inspire further collaboration to alleviate the pressing challenges faced by families in need.
Senator Mayer’s diaper drive serves not only as a logistical effort to provide material aid but also as a beacon of hope and community solidarity, illustrating the powerful impact of local initiatives on the welfare of families across Westchester County. The ongoing support and awareness generated by such efforts are essential in promoting a more equitable society, making significant strides in addressing diaper need, and, by extension, fostering a supportive environment for the youngest members of the community.
