Inaugural Diaper Drive Exceeds Goal, Helps Nearly 200 Milwaukee Area Dads
“We want to show dads that we care about them, we value their presence, we value everything that they do.”
Those are the words of Andrew Bonner, Community Engagement Coordinator at Wellpoint Care Network. In partnership with the Milwaukee Diaper Mission, Bonner led Wellpoint Care’s inaugural “Diapers for Dads” event, which was held on Friday, December 15.
“Our goal was to collect 10,000 diapers so that we could supply 100 dads with 100 diapers,” added Bonner. “I am super excited to say that we have explosively exceeded that amount. The last count was nearly 19,000 diapers. So that’s almost 200 dads that we’re able to supply diapers for.”
Aside from diapers, fathers who stopped by the “Diapers for Dads” event were also able to get free wipes, community resources, lunch and even some toys.
“It’s slightly overwhelming because my vision was just diapers and resources,” said Bonner. “But, as the word spread, we had organizations donate toys. So, not only are we able to break the barrier of financially supplying diapers, but now we’re tapping into the holiday spirit. Dads are able to go back home and go to their families with at least two toys. That’s exciting. It makes me feel like our voice is being heard and we’re able to make an impact.”
Milwaukee area dads who stopped by expressed their appreciation to Wellpoint Care for having the event and providing supplies and resources.
“We have a 14-month-old baby and four older kids, so any help that we can get is appreciated,” said Kendrick from Milwaukee. “I recently lost my job, so we’ve been trying to stretch our diapers that we have left, but we’re nearing the end. When we saw this, it was like perfect timing.”
“I got some diapers, some toys, some bags for a diaper genie and some wipes,” said William from Oak Creek, father of newborn twin boys. “It’ll cut the cost of buying diapers for twins, so it has a great positive impact.”
“Diapers, toys, things of that nature are always needed,” said Jonathan from Milwaukee, father of a two-year-old. “It’s always a big price tag while shopping. The help goes farther than anyone could imagine.”
Wellpoint Care’s goal is to host this event each year going forward.
“I would love to see more events geared towards fathers,” said Jonathan. “If fathers can see that and know that there is help, they won’t get discouraged. I feel that a lot of fathers may not feel that they’re adequate enough because they can’t get certain things like diapers or wipes. It can be a blow to their pride or manhood. It’s good to know there are services out there saying, ‘We got your back, keep going, we’re here to help.’”
