South San Francisco, CA, November 20, 2023 – Press Release
San Mateo County Libraries Launches Free Diaper Program
Measure K Funds Provide Free Diapers to Families in Need
November 16, 2023
PRESS RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — San Mateo County Libraries has launched a pilot program offering over 1,800 free diaper kits to support families in need. Each kit contains 80 diapers and 200 wipes. The program, which launched on October 28, has already provided over 9,500 free diapers to community members. Funding for the pilot program comes from Measure K, San Mateo County’s voter-approved half-cent sales tax intended to support critical services.
“Free diapers and wipes can make a big difference for families struggling with the high cost of living in the Bay Area, especially during the holiday season,” Sara McDowell, Library JPA Governing Board Chair said. “San Mateo County Libraries are a trusted resource in our communities, and we are honored to be the ones providing these essential items in a welcoming environment for families and their little ones.”
The rising cost of diapers has created a challenge for families who need these essential items. Data show that low-income families spend approximately 14% of their post-tax income on diapers. The Libraries hope to ease some of that financial burden by passing out free diapers during special distribution events once a month.
Families are invited to pick up kits including diapers and wipes at no cost on a first come, first served basis. No library card, proof of ID, income or any other information will be collected to receive diapers.
The three-month diaper pilot program is offering diaper kits at 11 remaining events through January at Pacifica Sharp Park and Belmont libraries. Diapers will be available in sizes 1-6 while supplies last. Each event will also offer families a chance to enjoy fun, kid-friendly experiences and connect with our libraries.
The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors approved $50,000 of Measure K funds to support the pilot program on October 3. Proposed to the Board by San Mateo County District 3 Supervisor Ray Mueller, the free diapers offering builds on the successful launch of other necessities San Mateo County Libraries has made available for free to the public. Previously the libraries have launched free distribution of COVID-19 masks, test kits and period products.
“In these tough economic times we wanted to make certain people weren’t choosing between nutritious food and essentials like diapers, for their children,” said Supervisor Ray Mueller. “We’ve seen this work at other libraries in California and wanted to make it happen for our residents here in San Mateo County. Hopefully this makes the holiday season a little brighter for those in need.”
Belmont Library
1110 Alameda de las Pulgas, Belmont, CA 94002
Saturday, November 18, 10:30 AM
Saturday, December 2, 10:30 AM
Saturday, December 16, 2:00 PM
Saturday, January 13, 10:30 AM
Saturday, January 27, 10:30 AM
Pacifica Sharp Park Library
104 Hilton Way, Pacifica, CA 94044
Saturday, November 18, 10:30 AM
Thursday, November 30, 5:30PM
Tuesday, December 5, 5:30PM
Saturday, December 16, 10:30 AM
Saturday, January 6, 10:30 AM
Saturday, January 20, 10:30 AM
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About San Mateo County Libraries
San Mateo County Libraries is a Joint Powers Authority that operates libraries in the communities of Atherton, Belmont, Brisbane, East Palo Alto, Foster City, Half Moon Bay, Millbrae, North Fair Oaks, Pacifica, Portola Valley, San Carlos and Woodside. San Mateo County Libraries ignite growth through transformative experiences. Visit smcl.org for information about our community libraries, extensive digital and physical collections, innovative services, and numerous online resources and virtual programs and events.