Preventive health measures are key to ensuring that children remain healthy as they grow. Many childhood illnesses can be avoided or mitigated through basic hygiene practices and health routines. By teaching children healthy habits early, parents and caregivers can help set the foundation for lifelong wellness.

Developing good hygiene habits during childhood lays the foundation for a healthy life. From washing hands to learning how to care for their bodies, children who are taught consistent hygiene practices are more likely to stay well, feel confident, and avoid common illnesses. Unfortunately, many families face barriers to accessing the hygiene essentials needed to build those habits.

When we think of children's health, we often focus on nutrition, vaccinations, and exercise—but oral hygiene is just as critical. Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children in the United States, affecting their overall health, academic performance, and quality of life.

Behind every stocked diaper shelf at a nonprofit or every successful donation campaign, there’s an army of dedicated volunteers. In the face of growing diaper need across the U.S., community volunteers have emerged as the backbone of relief efforts—packing, distributing, organizing, and advocating for the families who need help the most.

Diaper need is a hidden crisis impacting child health, parental well-being, and economic stability. Discover why access to diapers is a public health and social justice issue—and how you can help families thrive.

Diapers are more than a parenting essential—they are a public health necessity. Yet millions of families in the United States face diaper need, lacking the resources to provide an adequate supply of clean diapers for their babies.

Diaper need is a silent crisis affecting nearly 1 in 2 U.S. families with young children. It refers to the lack of a sufficient supply of diapers to keep a baby or toddler clean, dry, and healthy. For low-income parents, the inability to afford enough diapers can lead to severe consequences—including child health risks, maternal stress, and barriers to work and childcare.

Hygiene is a basic human need, yet millions of families in the U.S. struggle to afford essential hygiene products like diapers, wipes, soap, and menstrual supplies. Hygiene equity ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, has access to the basic items necessary for health, dignity, and well-being.