St. Agnes students raise funds for Franciscan Health diaper pantry

Students at St. Agnes School in Chicago Heights raised $1,650 during their Lenten service project to purchase diapers for Franciscan Health Olympia Fields’ diaper pantry for new moms in need.

The project, called For the Sake of New Life, spanned two weeks during Lent. Students filled baby bottle banks with money they earned by giving up screen time, helping with chores or forgoing a favorite snack food.

The Franciscan Health Family Birth Center Olympia Fields will use the generous donation to purchase diapers for the diaper pantry for new mothers who need an adequate supply after leaving the hospital.

Nearly one in three families struggles to afford diapers, which can cost more than $1,000 a year. As many as 57% of families with diaper insecurity report missing school or work because they do not have diapers needed to send their children to childcare.

Studies have shown that babies’ health improves when families receive diapers, including fewer incidences of diaper rash, related bacterial infections and urinary tract infections. A fresh supply of diapers also has been shown to improve a mother’s mental health and reduce the risk of child abuse.

“We appreciate our partners in the community who share our mission of caring for the most vulnerable,” South Suburban Chicago Franciscan Health Foundation Executive Director Laurie Crosby said. “The hard work of the students means a lot not only to the patients and community members who will benefit, but to all of us at the hospital and the Foundation as well.”

The diaper pantry is supported by contributions to the Franciscan Health Foundation. To donate or to learn more, go to www.franciscanhealthfoundation.org or call (708) 852-2430.