PROCLAMATION from Fred Camillo, First Selectman
WHEREAS, Diaper need, the condition of not having a sufficient supply of clean diapers to keep babies and toddlers clean, dry, and healthy, can adversely affect the health and well-being of babies, toddlers, and their families; and
WHEREAS, The people of Greenwich recognize that diaper need is a public health issue, and addressing diaper need can lead to economic opportunity for the state’s families and communities and improved health for children, thus ensuring all children and families have access to the basic necessities required to thrive and reach their full potential; and
WHEREAS, National surveys and research studies report that one in three families struggles with diaper need, and purchasing enough diapers to keep a baby or toddler clean, dry, and healthy can consume 14 percent of a low-wage family’s post-tax income; and
WHEREAS, A daily or weekly supply of diapers is generally an eligibility requirement for babies and toddlers to participate in child care programs and quality early-education programs that enable children to thrive and parents to work; and
WHEREAS, Without enough diapers, babies and toddlers risk infections and health problems that may require medical attention resulting in medical costs, and parents may be prevented from accessing child care needed to go to work or school, thereby destabilizing the family’s economic prospects and well-being; and
WHEREAS, Greenwich is proud to be home to trusted community-based organizations including Mothers for Others that recognize the importance of diapers in ensuring health and providing economic stability for families and thus distribute diapers to families.
NOW, THEREFORE, l, FRED CAMILLO, FIRST SELECTMAN OF THE TOWN OF GREENWICH, do
hereby proclaim September 26, 2022 as
Diaper Need Awareness Day