If you are struggling to afford diapers, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Algoma might be able to help you out. The National Diaper Bank Network estimates that the average family spends between $75 and $100 each month on diapers for one child. That number looms larger every month as inflation tightens its grip on families’ pocketbooks, increasing the price of diapers by nearly 20 percent. The Wisconsin Legislature could not approve a bill to make diapers tax-exempt earlier this year, and you cannot use food stamps or other government assistance programs to pay for them. The congregation at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Algoma saw a problem they could provide a solution to with a bit of work. This spring, they began collecting diapers, wipes, and rash cream for the diaper bank. Pastor Joel McKenney says the problem is connecting needy families with donated items.

Distribution days are the first and third Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Algoma. You can click on this link to request assistance.