UnitedHealthcare is sponsoring a diaper distribution event with Allied Pediatrics. The event will take place at 7405 Shallowford Road in Chattanooga on Tuesday from 10 a.m.-noon.
Officials said, "One in three Tennessee families struggle with diaper insecurity. UnitedHealthcare is sponsoring statewide diaper giveaway events for National Diaper Need Awareness Week Sept. 24 through Oct. 2, drawing attention to diaper need in the U.S.
"Diapers cost roughly $100 a month per child.
Lack of clean diapers disproportionately affects single parent households and low-income families. For a parent or caregiver making minimum wage, anywhere from six to 14 percent of their income will go toward diapers, and most families who struggle with diaper insecurity fall short by 20 diapers a month.
"Without diapers, children cannot attend childcare centers or preschools. This leads to caregivers missing work and possible unemployment and loss of income. Nationally, 57 percent of parents experiencing diaper need who rely on childcare said they missed an average of four days of school or work in the past month because they didn't have diapers.
"According to Nashville Diaper Connection, having clean, dry diapers can help prevent infections, neglect, abuse, unnecessary tension and physical and emotional stress."