VIDEO/PHOTO: Ernst Helps Kick-off Operation Diaper Drive in Iowa
During the month of October, the Young Parents Network, in partnership with the Eastern Iowa Diaper Bank, is working to get diapers to Iowa families in need.
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) today joined the Young Parents Network (YPN) and the Eastern Iowa Diaper Bank to kick-off the 7th Annual Operation Diaper Drive, which has the goal of stocking a full year’s supply of diapers and wipes by the end of the month. This effort seeks to help low-income families in Iowa who may currently be struggling to afford clean diapers. Donations to the cause will be accepted at Hy-Vee Food Stores in Cedar Rapids, Marion, Coralville, and Iowa City.
Click HERE for photos and b-roll of the meeting.
“Inflation and a baby formula shortage have put tremendous stress on our Iowa families. That’s why I’m working across the aisle to help our parents better afford and access diapers,” said Ernst. “I was so glad to partner with the Young Parents Network and Eastern Iowa Diaper Bank to kick off their annual Operation Diaper Drive and help support Iowa families and our local communities.”
“We greatly appreciate Senator Ernst for her visit and for her leadership in introducing the Diaper Act. This bipartisan effort goes towards addressing diaper need and ensuring all families have what they need to thrive. YPN holds the strong belief that all families and children, regardless of ability to pay or life situation, deserve the best,” said Alejandro Pino, Executive Director at YPN. “The Senator’s bipartisan effort is one way our communities get stronger and thrive for years to come.”
BACKGROUND
Ernst has long worked to provide access to critical supplies like diapers and wipes to families in need. In February, she introduced the DIAPER Act, a bipartisan effort to expand flexible spending accounts and health savings account—which can be used to purchase a number of items relating to health expenses such as adult diapers and bandages—to also include the purchase of disposable infant diapers. In 2021, Ernst joined Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on bipartisan legislation to provide additional funds for diaper assistance through the Social Services Block Grant program.
###
