Schnucks, diaper bank team up to help needy families

To mark National Diaper Need Awareness Week (Sept. 28 through Oct. 4), St. Louis-based Schnuck Markets Inc. (Schnucks) and the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank are teaming up to bring diapers to St. Louis area families in need. Beginning Sept. 23 through Oct. 4, most Missouri metro area Schnucks stores will hold a 12-day diaper drive benefiting the diaper bank.

According to Joanie Taylor, Schnucks' director of consumer affairs and community relations, Schnucks has a great history of donating food and collecting goods for neighbors in need, and diapers seemed like a natural extension.

“The cost of diapers can be a burden on struggling families, but at the same time are a basic need for any young child,” Taylor said. “With many locations across the metro area, Schnucks stores make perfect collection points for residents wanting to help their neighbors. Those wanting to give can bring extra diapers from home that their children may have outgrown, or they can purchase and donate them right in our store.”

Additionally, Schnucks’ will be running a buy-one-get-one-free promotion on its Tippy Toes brand of diapers and training pants ($6.99 to $7.49 value) from Sept. 23 through Sept. 29, giving customers the option of donating the extra package. Schnucks customers also may opt to donate directly to the diaper bank by simply adding $1, $3 or $5 to their grocery orders when checking out, the retailer said.

The St. Louis Area Diaper Bank works with local organizations that serve low-income families to provide diapers to St. Louis children who need them.

“Diapers in short supply can cause children and parents to suffer negative physical as well as emotional consequences," said Jessica Adams, director of the diaper bank. "Diaper rash from staying in a soiled diaper for too long and depression in parents who cannot meet this most basic need for their children are two of the most common consequences.”