Women, labor, and community leaders came together today to donate diapers and feminine products to serve families in need in Boston. Through the citywide diaper drive, they collected thousands of diapers and other products, all of which will go towards the families served by Brookview House. Mayor Janey, City of Boston, was in attendance at the drive to raise awareness about the burgeoning cost of child care for families.
“Throughout the pandemic and beyond, the City of Boston has been proud to stand alongside lifesaving organizations that are providing vital resources to families in need,” said Mayor Janey, City of Boston. “This year has been especially challenging for families with young children and I am incredibly grateful for the work of the Greater Boston Labor Council and Community Labor United for supporting our residents when they need it most.”
This drive comes at a time when diapers are one of the most expensive items for struggling families with young children, and the impact of COVID-19 has made them even more costly. This is a part of an ongoing child care crisis, which needs immediate attention. The organizers are calling on state lawmakers to make parents and caregivers a priority for American Rescue Plan funding — especially those most impacted by the pandemic.
“The increasing cost of diapers and other necessities in the market has made it difficult for our mothers and families to care for their children,” said Lindsay McCluskey, Deputy Director, Community Labor United. “It is an added cost to their child care needs. We hope that the products we have collected here today will make a difference to our community members, and knowing the struggles our families are facing, that our legislators will fund flexible child care.”
“We are grateful for the amazing women leaders who came together today to conduct this drive,” said Darlene Lombos, Executive Secretary-Treasurer, Greater Boston Labor Council. “This pandemic has made it incredibly difficult for our families to afford basic items to care for themselves and their infants, like diapers. This donation will go a long way in aiding our families-in-need and in keeping our babies healthy.”
Hundreds of people gave diapers and other toiletries during the afternoon event, which was held in the parking lot of the Dorchester offices of the Boston Teachers Union, and will benefit the women and children of Brookview House. The drive was sponsored by the Greater Boston Labor Council and Community Labor United.