Nonprofit organization Austin Diaper Bank launched in early June to respond to the growing need for diapers for Austin-area infants.

According to the organization, about 12,000 Austin infants are in need of diapers, which on average cost $100 per child per month. Federal assistance programs such a WIC and SNAP do not cover the cost of diapers.

Austin Diaper Bank partners with local social service agencies, such as Helping Hand Home for Children, to distribute diapers to places in need.

"We work with them on the number of children and get the right amount that they need in the size they need," said Founder and President Beverly Hamilton. "We focus on diapers so the local social service agencies can focus more on their mission."

The organization does not just focus on donations for infants but also for adults. Hamilton said adult undergarments are a necessity for many seniors and are much more costly than diapers for infants.

Austin Diaper Bank works within Austin and surrounding cities such as Cedar Park, Round Rock and Kyle. The nonprofit is the first of its kind in Austin, but similar organizations have been created in Houston, Dallas and San Antonio.

Getting involved

The group accepts online monetary donations as well as diaper donations at one of four official drop-off locations, and also hosts diaper drives and encourages others to host drives within their local communities. One diaper drive held July 29 brought in more than 1,300 diapers.

The diaper drives are one of the main ways the organization encourages others to contribute, Hamilton said.

The next event will be Aug. 24 at the Whole Foods Market Arbor Trails location on William Cannon Drive in South Austin.

Austin Diaper Bank encourages people in the community to spread the word about the diaper need and to talk to local organizations to start a diaper drive.

To find more information on Austin Diaper Bank, visit their website.