MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – The Early Learning Coalition of Marion County is urgently seeking community support as demand for its Diaper Assistance Program continues to rise and critical diaper sizes run out month after month.

Since July, 182 local families have received an average of 60 diapers each month to help parents keep their children clean, healthy and comfortable. Due to the growing need, the Coalition is completely out of diaper sizes 5, 6 and 4-5T, with only one package of size 7 remaining.

“Every month we run out of a least one diaper size,” said Ruth Velez, Parent Education Coordinator at the Coalition. “When the correct size isn’t available, families are forced to accept diapers that are too big or too small–something no parent wants for their child.”

A lifeline for working families

For parents like Oscar Redden, a single father caring for a child with autism, the Diaper Assistance Program has provided more than supplies–it’s provided peace of mind.

“The Diaper Assistance Program has made a meaningful impact on my family,” Redden shared. “Having access to a consistent and reliable supply of diapers relieved financial stress and ensured my son always had what he needed. Programs like this make a real difference for working families in our community.”

In a recent family survey, Redden described the program as a “budget saving resource,” echoing feedback from dozens of families who report that diaper assistance helps them stay in school, maintain employment and meet other essential needs.

The hidden cost of diaper need

Diapers are a basic necessity–yet they are not covered by SNAP or WIC, leaving many families to struggle silently. For families already facing high child care costs and economic pressure, diaper shortages can quickly turn into a crisis.

Currently the Coalition serves more than 50 families per month, many of whom rely on monthly diaper assistance as part of their household survival budget.

Community heroes needed now

The Coalition is calling on individuals, businesses, faith organizations and civic groups to step forward as local heroes by donating diapers or hosting diaper drives.

  • Donate Diapers: The most needed sizes are 5, 6, 7, 4-5T and 5-6T. Donations can be dropped off at the Early Learning Coalition office, 2300 SW 17th Rd., Ocala.
  • Host a Diaper Drive at your business, church or organization. Contact Ruth Velez at 352-369-2315, Ext. 212 or email ParentingPrograms@ELC-Marion.org for a Diaper Drive Toolkit.
  • Make a financial donation to help purchase urgently needed sizes. Visit ELC-Marion.org/donate/ for more information. Options are available to provide one-time, monthly or yearly gifts.
  • Spread awareness to others in-person or on social media.

“One pack of diapers can make the difference between a child going without and a family getting through another week,” Velez added. “This is an opportunity for our community to come together and support Marion County’s youngest residents.”

About the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County

The Coalition’s mission is to equip every young child and family for success. The nonprofit implements the Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), School Readiness, and Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) programs on behalf of the Florida Department of Education Division of Early Learning plus additional complimentary programs that support parents as a child’s first and most important teacher. For more information, call 352-369-2315 or visit elc-marion.org.