By Kevin Hendricks, The Paper.
Rio Rancho families already leaning on St. Felix Pantry for groceries will soon get help with another budget-buster: diapers. The pantry launches its new Diaper Pantry program with a ribbon-cutting Tuesday.
The kickoff runs noon to 1 p.m. Sept. 15 at 4020 Barbara Loop SE, with the Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce co-hosting and a light lunch served. Starting in October, eligible pantry guests can pick up a week’s supply of diapers alongside their food distribution.
The math behind the need is stark: nearly one in two American families with young kids struggle to afford diapers, according to the National Diaper Bank Network, and diapers aren’t covered by SNAP or WIC. In New Mexico, 37% of kids under 3 live in families earning less than twice the federal poverty level. “Food insecurity rarely exists in isolation,” said Tim Sheahan, St. Felix Pantry’s president and CEO.
The program, funded through the St. Francis Fund, will hold monthly distributions on the second Saturday starting in October.
Attend the launch or donate diapers:
- What: Ribbon-cutting & community kickoff
- When: Tuesday, Sept. 15, noon–1 p.m.
- Where: St. Felix Pantry, 4020 Barbara Loop SE, Rio Rancho
- Bonus: Bring a box of diapers or donate $20+ for a chance to win a 50″ Smart TV
- Info: (505) 891-8075