Diaper Bank to distribute diapers, hygiene supplies to furloughed government workers

The event is 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 30, at the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina campus,1965 Ivy Creek Blvd., Durham, Building 200. Between 6,300 and 7,800 North Carolina residents were furloughed or working without pay for more than a month. The shutdown ended on Friday when President Trump and lawmakers agreed to reopen it for the next three weeks.

“Every day we hear from federal workers who are having to choose between paying for housing and heating or having enough diapers for their children.” said Michelle Old, the diaper bank's director, in a news release. “The need for support is at a critical level and will continue for some time as families try to regroup.”

The diaper bank, with three regional branches in the Triangle, Greater Triad and Lower Cape Fear, collects and distributes diapers, feminine hygiene supplies and other items to families in need.

“As a former federal government employee, I understand the vital work they do each and every day for the American people," said Patrick Conway, President and CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, in the release. "It is what makes our nation the greatest in the world. Families shouldn’t have to make the choice between buying food or diapers for their children. We’re proud of our partnership with the Diaper Bank of North Carolina and the positive impact they’ve had on our community."