Operation Warm Hearts and the Olean Rotary Club once again joined forces to support local families through a successful “diaper and pull-up drive” that addressed a critical and ongoing community need.Throughout the drive, community members generously donated diapers, pull-ups, and wipes—items that are essential for the health, safety, and hygiene of infants and toddlers.
The strong response reflected growing local awareness of diaper need, an issue that continues to impact many families in the region.
“Recent data suggests that up to half of U.S. families with young children experience diaper need,” said Ann Marie Sitter-Tompkins, co-founder of Operation Warm Hearts.
“Babies without clean diapers face higher risks of painful rashes, urinary tract infections, and additional doctor visits.
Diapers cost about $100 per month per child and are not covered by SNAP or WIC, forcing families to make difficult choices.
Many families locally are also feeling the impact of recent cuts to diaper assistance programs.”
Founded in 2020, Operation Warm Hearts has grown into a trusted community resource, providing clothing and essential items such as dental care products, books, pillows, blankets, and other comfort necessities.
Through partnerships with volunteers and charitable organizations, its services continue to expand to meet evolving needs across the region.
This diaper and pull-up drive followed another successful collaborative effort earlier in the season.
In November, Operation Warm Hearts and the Olean Rotary Club partnered with the Zonta Club of Olean to host a community food drive that collected more than 500 pounds of food.
Donations were distributed to the Olean Food Pantry and the Salvation Army of Olean, helping support individuals and families facing food insecurity during the holiday season.
Together, these initiatives highlight the strength of local partnerships and the shared commitment to Service Above Self, demonstrating how collaboration can make a meaningful difference for families in our community.
For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/operationwarmheartscommunity or https://www.facebook.com/OleanRotaryClub.