A holiday diaper collection in Tucson, Arizona, in 1994 by Resolve Inc., created a national movement to help people purchase diapers. By 1999, the movement had collected over 300,000 diapers. The success led to establishing the first dedicated Diaper Bank of Central Arizona. The Arizona Diaper Bank now operates from Tucson and Phoenix, addressing critical needs statewide.
The organization runs three programs. The first focuses on free diaper distribution. Statistics indicate that some families in Arizona face barriers, such as high diaper costs, that prevent them from maintaining employment or pursuing education. Only children with disabilities can receive state-funded diaper aid. The initiative ensures infants in households below the poverty line have access to necessary supplies.
Next, the Tucson Diaper Bank's second program supports adults, particularly those over 65, experiencing incontinence—a lack of control over their bladder or bowels. This group includes people with disabilities, patients recovering from surgeries, and women who have given birth. The nonprofit's extensive network of 55 partner agencies ensures that essential supplies reach those in need.
Finally, the Period Poverty Program is another vital initiative by the Tucson Diaper Bank that supports low-income women and teens in Arizona who miss school or work due to a lack of period products. By collaborating with partners, resource officers, healthcare providers (such as school nurses), and generous donors, the organization mitigates educational and employment disruptions by providing them with necessary supplies. Beyond product distribution, the Period Poverty Program advocates for increased awareness of menstrual health issues and related socioeconomic challenges.
Partner agencies are crucial to the Tucson Diaper Bank's mission. The nonprofit collaborates with 55 partner agencies across Arizona. In Southern Arizona, key partners include Arizona Youth Partnership, Family Health Care Amigos, Tucson Unified School District – Teenage Parent High School, and Community Action Human Resources Agency (CAHRA). In the Central region, Tucson Diaper Bank collaborates with organizations such as the Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest, the Cartwright School District Center for Strong Families, and the Tempe Community Action Agency.
Tucson Diaper Bank has provided over 20 million supplies. In 2023, the organization—with its partners' aid—supplied over three million children's diapers, 300,000 incontinence briefs, and more than 220,000 period products. It maintains a vast inventory, operating from strategically located facilities in Tucson and Phoenix. Its streamlined process ensures efficient preparation and delivery of supplies to diverse social service partners, impacting over 600,000 individuals.
Moreover, the donor community supports Tucson Diaper Bank's operations and overall mission. Financial contributions and in-kind donations form the backbone of this support. However, individuals can volunteer their time and skills. Volunteer activities include collecting donations, raising awareness about the need for essential supplies, assisting with fundraising, administrative tasks, distribution work, and organizing product drives and virtual campaigns.
The organization's calendar features strategic events that further its mission. For example, National Diaper Need Awareness Week spotlights the critical issue of diaper insufficiency and its impact on families, encouraging donations. The World Continence Week, held annually, addresses incontinence challenges. The annual Dancing with the Stars gala is a high-profile fundraiser that leverages local celebrity involvement and features fun performances.
Tucson Diaper Bank also participates in Giving Tuesday, a global initiative that aligns with its community transformation goals, and other charitable events, such as Millions for Tucson, an automotive event where ticket proceeds go to charities.
