Distribution program delivers 1 million diapers to residents in need

A little more than a year ago, several community groups joined together to create a program that distributes diapers twice a month to low income San Bernardino residents. Since the program began, more than 1 million diapers have been distributed throughout San Bernardino.

The program is coordinated by Loma Linda University Health in partnership with Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County, San Bernardino City Unified School District, and the El Sol Neighborhood Educational Center via the Community Health & Education Worker (CHEW) Program.

A need for diapers was identified by the Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County, which can require up to 20 percent of a household income. The group then approached Loma Linda University Health for assistance with distribution of the diapers due to their experience coordinating food distribution during the pandemic.

The program operates out of an elementary school parking lot and distributes some 80,000 diapers a month, leaders say. The diapers are provided by the state through the county’s community partnership program. Loma Linda University Health warehouse employees work to store and deliver the diapers for each distribution event.

Drivers line up their cars awaiting assistance and are often given additional items or referrals to other services, such as preschool for their children or family nutrition counseling. Volunteers also distribute 600 food boxes each month.

Students from Loma Linda University also participate during distribution events, either as volunteers or as a practicum requirement for their program of study.