News
The Basics Mecklenburg Announces New Partnership with the Diaper Bank of NC
November 2025
No manual, no problem because together, The Basics Mecklenburg and the Diaper Bank of North Carolina are creating a stronger network of support for parents and caregivers. The collaboration combines immediate, concrete assistance with long-term tools for child development to parents and caregivers in Mecklenburg County.
"This partnership represents a powerful example of intentional collaboration, ensuring that more families have access to equitable and comprehensive support. It brings me great joy to know that families across Mecklenburg County will receive life-changing assistance, not only meeting their immediate need for diapers, but also addressing long-term needs through concrete resources and parent education," said Bibiana Lucumi, The Basics Mecklenburg Manager.
Through this partnership, diapers will be available exclusively to families who actively participate in SSMC Programs providing targeted support where it's needed most. Every diaper bundle distributed by the Diaper Bank of NC across Mecklenburg County will include a Basics sticker featuring a QR code connecting parents and caregivers to practical resources that explain the five science-based Basics principles and how to integrate them into daily routines. These principles are designed to strengthen early brain development, close achievement gaps, and ensure kindergarten readiness.
"At the Diaper Bank of North Carolina, we believe that every child deserves a strong, healthy start, and partnerships like ours with the Smart Start Basics Program in Mecklenburg make that possible. Together, we're ensuring that families have access to the essential resources they need, from diapers to developmental support, so that children can thrive and parents can focus on what matters most: building bright futures for their little ones," Michelle Schaefer, Founder and CEO, Diaper Bank of North Carolina.
Pairing diapers with educational resources makes it easier for parents and caregivers to access tools that promote healthy development. Helping families thrive both now and in the future, one diaper change at a time.
"By doing so, we help remove barriers that weigh heavily on families today. This collaboration will create impact now and for years to come, as The Basics principles become a cornerstone for healthy brain development and help close the achievement gaps that many children in our county risk facing, said Lucumi.
To kick off the partnership, members of Smart Start of Mecklenburg County held a wrapping party at the Diaper Bank of NC's Greater Charlotte warehouse. If you or your company would like to hold a wrapping party.
