Peoria Standard

State Representative Ryan Spain's annual Holiday Diaper Drive has concluded another successful year in 2024. This year, the drive collected over 14,000 diapers and more than 16,000 wipes for families in need during the holiday season. Since its inception seven years ago, the drive has gathered a total of more than 82,500 diapers.

Rep. Spain expressed gratitude to contributors, stating: “When my team and I held our first diaper drive several years ago, I could not have imagined how successful this annual event would become,” said Spain. “To everyone who donated, thank you! Thanks to your immense generosity, local families in need will be able to sleep a little easier this holiday season, and that is the best gift anyone can receive.”

The initiative began after recognizing a widespread need across communities. Nearly half of U.S. families struggle with affording diapers since programs like WIC and SNAP do not cover these essentials. Many turn to local food pantries for help; however, keeping up with the demand for diapers is challenging for these pantries.

Spain also acknowledged local partners who served as donation sites and thanked Advanced Medical Transport of Central Illinois for delivering an ambulance full of donations.

All collected items will be distributed to local food and diaper pantries within the 73rd House District.