A 2022 study published in Health Equity found that 36% of Massachusetts families with young children could not afford enough diapers for their children, and that diaper need has become a growing public health issue associated with poverty, food insecurity, and chronic illness.

This holiday season, Mayor Paul Brodeur invites residents to consider donating diapers or wipes to benefit community programs at MelroseWakefield Healthcare. Diapers and wipes may be dropped off beginning from, November 29 through Friday, December 16 at the Mayor’s Office, Melrose City Hall, 562 Main Street, or at the Melrose Public Library, which is currently located at the Beebe School at 263 W Foster Street. All sizes and brands accepted, and there is a special need for sizes 5 and 6.

Diapers are as essential to a child's well-being as food and shelter but are often the last thing families can afford when they are struggling financially. Diaper need is when a family lacks a sufficient supply of diapers to keep an infant or child clean, dry and healthy.

“Providing clean and dry diapers promotes physical and emotional health in babies, and lets babies and toddlers participate in early childhood education,” said Mayor Brodeur. “Programs like SNAP and WIC do not cover diapers, and with an increase in families struggling to afford the basics at the holidays, your help to reduce diaper need is more important than ever.”

For more information, please contact the Mayor’s Office at (781) 979-4440 or [email protected].

Please note the Mayor's Office Hours:

• Monday—Thursday: 8:30 a.m.—4:30 p.m
• Friday: 8:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m.

Please note the Melrose Public Library Hours:

• Monday—Thursday: 10 a.m.—9 p.m.
• Friday—Saturday: 10 a.m.—5 p.m.
• Sunday: 2 p.m.—5 p.m.

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