Some Hoosier families are faced with a no-win choice: do we buy diapers, or dinner?

On March 16, The Villages, a nonprofit foster care and adoption services agency, will host its annual Diaper Day to benefit families enrolled in their programs, with a goal of reaching 35,000 donated diapers.

One of the most challenging expenses for families involved in the agency's programming is diapers, said Nancy Gwin, The Villages' senior director of early childhood initiatives.

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In 2021, 43% of foster youth served by The Villages were ages 4 and under, according to data provided by the agency. Of the over 1,800 families served by the state's Healthy Families program, nearly all included a child in diapers.

In early 2021, the average unit price of diapers was up 14% year over year, according to Bloomberg, and has continued to rise. On top of rising prices, diapers are taxed in 35 states, including Indiana, according to the National Diaper Bank Network.

"What we often see is families really struggling to make the choice between paying certain bills or even purchasing food in order to buy diapers or using diapers far too long because they're trying to extend what little budget they have," Gwin said. "And we don't want families to be in that position where they're trying to make a choice like that."

Providing a family with diapers can alleviate that immediate need, but it can also intervene before the situation escalates, potentially leading to neglect.

"I strongly believe that the majority of parents out there really want to do what's best for their children," Gwin said, "but they're faced with some really difficult decisions about where sometimes very limited resources should be directed."

Those interested in participating can donate via the agency's Amazon wish list or by dropping off donations at any of The Villages' locations in Bedford, Bloomington, Elkhart, Evansville, Fort Wayne, Greenfield, Greensburg, Highland, Indianapolis, Kokomo, Terre Haute, Lafayette, Marion, Muncie, Noblesville or Portage. Businesses, organizations and groups are invited to host a diaper drive. 

"When we can help families get connected to resources that keep them from having to make those difficult decisions," Gwin said, "then they can focus on keeping their family stable and happy."

The Villages Diaper Day is March 16, and this year's goal is 35,000 donated diapers. All sizes are needed. Here's how you can get involved:

You can reach IndyStar reporter Holly Hays at holly.hays@indystar.com. Follow her on Twitter: @hollyvhays.