Chicago, IL – Today, the staff at La Rabida Children’s Hospital handed off the first truckload of diapers to be distributed to families in need across Chicago. Employees at the hospital donated diapers and cash to purchase more than 100,000 diapers during a Diaper Drive event in June. The diapers are being given to the True to Life Foundation, which operates a weekly Diaper Bank at 1712 E. 87th street in Chicago. Families in need can pick up the diapers at True to Life every Wednesday from 11am-1pm.
Employees at the specialty children’s hospital wanted to find a way to support patients, and families in Chicago and identified diapers as a critical resource in high demand across the city. Disruptions caused by COVID-19 and the temporary closure of some retail stores after vandalism in June have reduced the access to diapers in some areas of Chicago. Additionally, Illinois SNAP/LINK/WIC does not cover diapers, which can cost around $75 per month per child.
“At La Rabida, our mission is to not only care for children with chronic, complex medical conditions, but to also support their families and the health of the greater community. I’m so proud of how our team identified a way to help and in only a few weeks was able to make an impact.” Said Brenda Wolf, La Rabida Children’s Hospital President & CEO.
“We have seen a tremendous increase in need for diapers since the start of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Our Emergency Diaper Bank used to operate once a month, recently we’ve had to increase that to once a week.” According to Velinda Alexander, Founder and Executive Director of the True to Life Foundation. “The additional diapers collected by La Rabida will help hundreds of families during these challenging times.”
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About La Rabida Children’s Hospital
La Rabida Children’s Hospital is dedicated to maintaining and improving the quality of life for children with complex conditions, disabilities and chronic illnesses. La Rabida is a leader in delivering the specialized care and services to patients and families regardless of their ability to pay. Through hands-on education, advocacy and specialized care, La Rabida supports and encourages families to help navigate their lives both in and outside the walls of La Rabida. www.larabida.org
About True to Life Foundation
True To Life Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to the operation of youth and family programs that empower Chicago communities. True To Life Foundation strives to provide and advocate for the safety, education and development of our inner city children. The mission of True To Life Foundation is to promote competent, complete and creative families through education, crisis intervention, and restoration. www.truetolifefoundation.org