WMTV-TV in Madison raised 1,177,137 diapers in just one week for The Village Diaper Bank as part of its 4rth Annual Diaper Drive. The campaign collected 18,274 diapers and raised $185,418 in cash donations – $178,238 of that total in just one day.
The Village Diaper Bank distributes more than 130,000 diapers every month to families in need in the southern Wisconsin counties of Dane, Green and Jefferson and Columbia, through 27 partner agencies. With their buying power, $1 can buy $3 worth of diapers.
“In the past four years, our collaboration with the WMTV Diaper Drive has not only helped us raise an incredible sum of over $600,000 but has also been a catalyst for our exponential growth as a steadfast and sustainable pillar for families in our community,” said Megan Sollenberger, Founder and CEO of The Village Diaper Bank. “This initiative transcends the mere provision of diapers. It plays a crucial role in supporting children’s development, assisting families in achieving financial stability, and enabling parents to pursue consistent employment. Changing diapers is more than a daily task. It’s a life-changing act. We are thrilled to continue making this profound impact together.”
The 2024 drive was held between Feb. 15-22. Those who donated diapers in-person could drop them off at 15 community drop sites. Two Men & A Truck picked up those donations on the last day of the campaign and dropped them off at the Village Diaper Bank for volunteers to count and sort.
“Our viewers really came through during WMTV’s Diaper Drive,” said Don Vesely, WMTV 15 Regional Vice President/General Manager.” Megan and her team at the Village Diaper Bank work tirelessly to build a foundation that allows sponsors and viewers to make a difference in our community. It is inspirational when you see our community step-up and make a difference.”
WMTV 15 News Director Jessica Laszewski said, “Our coverage focused on the tough choices families are making and the reasons why one in two families are struggling to afford diapers. The diaper drive will have an immediate impact— providing an essential item to even more families.”
