No-cost diapers available this weekend thanks to Lakes Region Diaper Exchange

LACONIA — New and seasoned moms in the area have a place to grab some free diapers this weekend thanks to Katelyn Doherty’s new organization, the Lakes Region Diaper Exchange.

From noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, at LAXX Edge, 60 Bay St., families will be able to receive diapers and other baby essentials in a welcoming, low-pressure environment.

“While I was on maternity leave, I found myself sitting there trying to figure out what to do with extra diapers my kids had outgrown. Around the same time, I kept seeing moms in local Facebook groups asking if anyone had spare diapers, looking to trade sizes, or trying to piece together what they needed just to get by,” said Doherty, founder of Lakes Region Diaper Exchange. “That was the moment it really clicked for me — there is a real need here in our own community. The Lakes Region Diaper Exchange was created to help fill that gap and provide diapers, wipes, and other baby essentials to families here in our own community with dignity, compassion, and without judgment.”

Doherty’s driving motivator is that hardship affects families in different ways, and everyone can use a hand up. Donations are still being accepted, even during Saturday’s event.

Drop-off locations for baby supplies include Quickspin Laundromat in Laconia, and Lakes Region Gymnastics in Belmont, as well as a drop-off bin at Belknap Marketplace in Belmont, courtesy of Frank FM.

“Diaper need is often invisible,” Doherty wrote in an email. “Many of the families who need help are working hard, doing everything they can, and still falling short because life is simply expensive right now. Need does not always have a certain look, and support should not come with shame.”

For those who don’t have diapers to share, there are still ways to get involved. Community members can support the Lakes Region Diaper Exchange by sharing Facebook posts and helping spread the word; volunteering at events or helping sort donations; or hosting a donation drop box.

Additionally, the Lakes Region Diaper Exchange always takes monetary donations, especially ahead of this weekend’s exchange.

“There is no ‘right’ kind of struggle and no one should feel like they have to prove they are worthy of support. If a family needs help, we want them to feel welcome,” Doherty wrote. “This is about community — neighbors helping neighbors, parents helping parents, and making sure families know they are seen and supported.”

For more information, visit Facebook.com/LakesRegionDiaperExchange or lrdiaperexchange.org.

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Katlyn Proctor can be reached at katlyn@laconiadailysun.com or by calling 603-524-0150.