Diapers and adult incontinence products, like food, shelter, and health care, are a basic need. They are, however, expensive and unfortunately they cannot be purchased with food stamps or WIC assistance. There has been no steady source of free disposable diapers available to those in need in Rhode Island–leaving children from poor and low-income families at risk of spending hours in soiled diapers, which can lead to rashes and worse.

Fortunately the Rhode Island Diaper Bank (RIDB) was formed in 2006 by a group of mothers concerned about the welfare of Rhode Island’s young children and elderly. Through the partnerships they established with aid organizations such as food banks and social service agencies, the Rhode Island Diaper Bank distributes diapers and adult incontinence products to children, and disabled and elderly residents throughout the state.

The Rhode Island Diaper Bank accepts donations of money or unused packaged disposable diapers (no cloth diapers). They also purchase new diapers with donated funds and distribute the diapers to local agenices that in turn pass them on to families in need. Please contact the RIDB if you are interested in making a donation.

If you are in need of diapers, check the RIDB website for a complete list or contact one of their partner agencies directly. The following pick-up locations lists places that supply diapers (subject to change as new agencies are added):

PROVIDENCE
Camp Street Ministries (website)
194 Camp Street, Providence, RI 02906
(401) 421-5474

Providence Interim House (shelter)
49-51 Trenton Street Providence, RI 02906
(401) 831-4570

NEWPORT
East Bay Community Action Program (website)
19 Broadway Newport, RI 02840
(401) 847-7821

WOONSOCKET
Family Resources Community Action Program (website)
245 Main Street Woonsocket RI 02895
401-766-0900

RHODE ISLAND
Women’s Center of Rhode Island (website)