For many families, diapers are as essential as food and shelter. Yet millions of caregivers across the U.S. face an impossible daily decision: whether to buy diapers or pay for groceries, gas, or rent. This daily stress doesn’t just affect a baby’s well-being—it deeply impacts the mental health of the parents and caregivers, too.

For caregivers, not being able to provide basic hygiene supplies for their child can cause significant emotional distress. Anxiety, guilt, and shame often accompany diaper need. The CDC recognizes that financial stress and unmet child care needs are major contributors to caregiver burnout and depression.

Diaper need isn’t just a financial issue— it’s a maternal mental health crisis.