Have you seen the price of diapers lately? Whether you’re purchasing diapers for your own child or for someone else, one thing is certain, diapers are pricey! For some folks, however, buying diapers isn’t in the budget at all. But that can “change,” thanks to an organization called Power in Changing.
Banking on Diapers: Columbia, SC Diaper Bank
Power in Changing is the Midlands only diaper bank. Their services are available to those who are in need of anything from diapers, to baby formula, and many other baby-care and feminine needs. Power in Changing, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, relies on both monetary and product donations to make their mission possible.
Power in Changing was established in August 2015, by Executive Director Ayanna White. The idea behind the organization was a direct result of White’s own personal experience of struggling to make ends meet and purchase diapers.
“I experienced diaper need myself. I was working a full-time job, and at the time, my youngest was in day care. The day care assistant called me at work to let me know that my baby was down to her last 4 diapers. This was a Wednesday, and I did not get paid until Friday. I did not know what to do…I went into a panic,” she recalls.
White said that while her mom was able to loan her money for the diaper emergency that week, it was that particular event that changed everything.
“It got me wondering what other families do in a time like that. And shortly after, the Power In Changing Mission was created,” she says.
Power in Changing’s mission “is to empower poverty-stricken families through assistance and education thus providing them with the skills and tools necessary to achieve success and higher levels of independence.”
The organization requires help from the community in order to run successfully. Whether the help comes monetarily from donors, or by way of product donation, or even on a volunteer basis, Power in Changing is successful because of the aid of others.
Providing Assistance
Help is the foundation in which Power in Changing was built. Without assistance from donations and volunteers, the organization would not be possible.
The organization is currently accepting donations of everything from diapers, formula, baby clothes, and breast pumps, to tampons and menstrual discs. For a full list of Power in Changing’s needs, check out the Power in Changing Amazon Wish List!
Amelia Wilks has been donating to Power in Changing since April 2022.
“I donated and volunteered at least 5 or 6 times in the past year and a half,” she says.
Wilks says she wants others to know about the profound differences you can make by just donating to Power in Changing.
“There is such a need for critical materials that babies and families need to ensure their littles are taken care of. A donation can make all the difference for those experiencing diaper need,” she explains.
Wilks adds, “As someone who does not have kids, I did not realize how widespread diaper need was throughout our state. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to support Power in Changing. I’m happy to give back and help any time I can, and I encourage others to do the same.
Because of people like Wilks, it makes it possible for those in need of diapers and other baby items.
Accepting Assistance: Help for Parents in Columbia, SC
For parent Kayla Campbell, Power in Changing’s services have been invaluable.
“I’ve been there 4 or 5 times, and they have always been quick and super helpful,” she marvels.
She says from the very beginning that “they have always been willing to help with anything they had to give.”
The Little Things: More than just free diapers
Sometimes even the smallest things given, like a stuffed animal, leave a lasting footprint.
Campbell speaks to how Power in Changing really goes the extra mile when providing support and making their recipients feel welcome.
“They gave my daughter a Build-A-Bear Unicorn almost 6 months ago that she still sleeps with,” she muses.
Though she typically just goes for help with diapers, Campbell says Power in Changing has also been able to provide other baby essentials.
“I usually go specifically for diapers, but I’ve gotten formula, wipes, clothes, etc. from there before too,” she adds.
Campbell describes her experience with the organization as a positive one.
She remarks, “Every time I have to go, they have always been so kind to us. They are one of the best resources for struggling parents in the area I believe!”
To those that have never heard of Power in Changing before today, Campbell offers some words of advice.
“Ask for everything you need there. I’ve been surprised by what I’ve been given, and they always have different things.”
She also encourages anyone to reach out for help, even if you’re feeling shy.
“I would also like people to know that it’s okay to not want to go because you’re embarrassed, but they are so nice. They don’t make you feel bad at all about needing help. If anything, they try to help you more,” Campbell emphasizes.
How do you Qualify?
In order to qualify for help from Power in Changing, White says parents/guardians are required to be on some sort of social assistance program, such as WIC (Women, Infants and Children Nutritional Program) or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).
Where is Power in Changing Located?
Power in Changing’s main office is located 2638 Two Notch Road, Suite 116, Columbia, SC 29204. In addition to their main office, Power in Changing has two other offices in Lexington and Kershaw.
Donation Drop-Off Locations
Partnering with Richland County Library, Power in Changing, offers donation drop-offs at the following locations:
Richland Library Main
1431 Assembly St.
Columbia, SC 29201
Richland Library Cooper
5317 North Trenholm Rd.
Columbia, SC 29206
Richland Library Sandhills
763 Fashion Dr.
Columbia, SC 29229
In addition to the Emergency Diaper Need program, Power in Changing offers the Prenatal Power Program, Power Cycle Program, and the Family Empowerment Program.
- The Prenatal Power Program
- The Prenatal Power Program distributes vitamins and a baby essential kit to expectant mothers. According to the March of Dimes’ PeriStats (perinatal statistics), “In 2022, about 1 in 6 infants (17.5% of live births) was born to a woman receiving inadequate prenatal care in South Carolina.”
- The Power Cycle Program
- The Power Cycle Program provides period products to those in need. According to Period.com, “Over one in three (37%) American adults who menstruate say they or their family have struggled to afford menstrual products.”
- The Family Empowerment Program
- The Family Empowerment Program’s goal “is to provide information, encouragement, and support to caregivers in the core values of Family, Career, Education and Integrity.” The program provides classes each month and all participants receive a diaper package.
Small Changes, Big Impact: You can help
Next time you are thinking about exchanging those now too-small diapers or selling your breast pump and other no-longer-needed baby items, consider the tremendous impact you could be making by even the smallest donation to Power in Changing. Don’t have anything tangible to donate? Donating your time is just as important as a product or monetary donation. Sometimes making a difference doesn’t cost a thing!
