During the 2023 HomeAid Essentials Drives from March to August, HomeAid affiliates partnered with building and nonprofit organizations to collect over six million essential items for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. These items will provide crucial resources to individuals, families, and children across the nation.
Eleven HomeAid affiliates participated in this year’s drives, with most of them collecting critical items for children and families. HomeAid Phoenix, for instance, collected socks and underwear, which are essential needs for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
The recent inflation in the United States has caused an unprecedented 22% increase in the overall cost of diapers since 2018. According to NielsenIQ, a data firm that tracks consumer prices, this inflation rate is more than twice the current rate of inflation in the country, which peaked at 9.1% in June 2022. To help combat this growing crisis, ten HomeAid affiliates collected and distributed over 3.6 million diapers, over 2.4 million wipes, and nearly 69,000 other critical baby items in eight different states.
While government assistance programs generally cover welfare, food stamps, and Medicaid for low-income households in need, diapers and wipes are not typically included. HomeAid affiliates across the country help address this need by providing these necessary items to our nonprofit partners who, in turn, give them directly to families and individuals in need.
“Incredible strides have been made through HomeAid’s annual Essentials Drives, thanks to the remarkable generosity and compassion of our community. This year’s drive has not only provided essential diapers and other essential items to countless families in need but has also served as a powerful reminder of the positive change we can effect when we unite for a common cause. The impact of these efforts extends far beyond the physical donations; they embody the spirit of caring and support that defines HomeAid’s mission. Together, we are building not just homes, but also hope and brighter futures for those facing or at risk of homelessness,” said Scott Larson, CEO, HomeAid America.
The following are the totals of the 2023 spring/summer essentials campaigns from 11 HomeAid affiliates:
HomeAid Atlanta — 198,485
HomeAid Austin — 217,057
HomeAid Colorado — 2,472,614
HomeAid Inland Empire — 71,222
HomeAid National Capital Region — 283,531
HomeAid Northern California — 34,604
HomeAid Orange County — 1,519,520
HomeAid Orlando — 360,000
HomeAid Phoenix — 8,400
HomeAid Southern Nevada — 122,155
HomeAid Utah — 807,869
