Write a comment40K Diapers Delivered! –
The Oswego County Early Childhood Alliance (OCECA) proudly announces a major milestone for its Oswego County Diaper Bank initiative – more than 40,000 diapers have been distributed to families across the county since the program’s launch!
“This milestone reflects the power of community,” said OCECA Coordinator Sidney Carter. “Every donated diaper represents a neighbor showing up for another neighbor. We are incredibly grateful to our funders, partners and donors who make it possible for families to focus on caring for their children without the added stress of diaper need.”
In 2024, while conducting community research to support the development of the Oswego County Help Me Grow system, OCECA identified a critical gap in services. Families experiencing diaper need had no reliable or consistent resource within Oswego County to turn to for support. This finding was shared with OCECA’s executive committee, which prompted immediate action.
Carter secured funding to establish a countywide diaper bank designed to reduce financial stress for families with young children. With generous support from Excellus BlueCross BlueShield and the Richard S. Shineman Foundation, the Oswego County Diaper Bank officially launched on June 17, 2024.
The Bank provides families up to 50 diapers per child per month, helping caregivers meet a basic and essential need. There are no income or eligibility requirements beyond residency in Oswego County, ensuring the program remains accessible, inclusive and stigma-free.
Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the community, the Bank has been able to stretch its initial seed funding while expanding its reach. Through diaper drives, community collection boxes and individual “drop-in” donations, the program has received 29,864 donated diapers along with multiple packs of wipes. As a result, OCECA has used only about half of its original funding to date while continuing to serve families consistently.
Families in need of diapers, or community members interested in supporting the Oswego County Diaper Bank, are encouraged to contact the Oswego County Early Childhood Alliance for more information at oswegocountyeca@icpoc.org or 315-343-2344, ext. 113.
