As Costs for Everyday Essentials Skyrocket Under Trump, Duckworth Highlights Importance of Diaper Banks as a Lifeline for Struggling Families

[ROUND LAKE PARK, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today participated in Keeping Families Covered’s diaper distribution event where she highlighted the need to better support children and families as costs for everyday essentials like diapers continue to skyrocket under Donald Trump’s economy. Duckworth also met with volunteers and Keeping Families Covered staff to help distribute diapers and other baby products to families. Photos of today’s event are available on theSenator’s website.
“Our communities—and our local economies—thrive when we invest in our families, and Diaper Banks are a prime example of the positive impacts federal investment can have—especially compared to the damage caused by Trump’s cruel efforts to gut federal funding and raise prices in nearly every aspect of our lives,”Duckworth said.“Diaper banks play an important role in the journey of so many young families across the Midwest, and it’s one of the many pillars of support in the sometimes scary, often overwhelming moments of becoming a new parent.”
Diapers are critical not only for those who wear them, but for the economic and emotional health of families. However, in this country, 1 in 2 families reports not having enough diapers. Infants can need up to 12 diapers a day and toddlers up to 8—costing $80–$100 or more per month per baby. Since FY 2023, Duckworth has secured a total of $70 million for the Diaper Distribution Demonstration and Research Pilot (DDDRP), including $20 million for FY 2026.
Last year, Duckworth re-introduced her bipartisanEnd Diaper Need Act of 2025to make it easier for low-income families to afford the diapers they need. This legislation would help assist low-income families address diaper need by providing targeted funding for states, territories, diaper banks and other eligible entities who help provide diapers and diapering supplies at no cost to those in need.
Keeping Families Covered (KFF) is a member of the National Diaper Bank Network, serving families in Northern Illinois.KFF distributes products through two channels: a network of community partners and direct service.The National Diaper Bank Network (NDBN)connects and supports the country’s more than 200 community-based diaper banks that collect, store and distribute free diapers to struggling families.
-30-