There's an effort underway to collect and distribute diapers to Central New York families in need. A group of local women recently started the Central New York Diaper Bank to help a number of social service agencies in the region. Brad Vivacqua has more from outside the East Area YMCA in Fayetteville.

FAYETTEVILLE, N.Y. -- A Diaper Drive is now underway and people can drop off diapers at the East Area YMCA or at eight other locations mainly on the east side of Syracuse.

Four local women started this effort to help local families and children living in poverty. Statistics show about 50 percent of Syracuse city kids under five years old live in poverty.

Buying diapers can be a struggle for the families of those children, as diapers are not covered by SNAP or WIC benefits.

There is a goal of collecting 10,000 diapers from now through May 27 which will be distributed through a network of social service agencies.

Having an adequate supply of diapers for a child is important for many reasons.

"Not having diapers means that children cannot go to daycare, because parents need to provide a supply of disposable diapers. Not having diapers means that children, cry longer and increase stress and anxiety for parents who are already struggling and that can lead to physical abuse," said CNY Diaper Bank Founder Michela Hugo.

Hugo says businesses along with church and school groups can help in a big way by starting their own drives.

The diapers will be distributed through agencies like Vera House, the Rescue Mission, and the Salvation Army.     

You can drop off diapers at the YMCA but you're also encouraged to check out the Diaper Drive website to get more information on how you can help.

And for a full list of drop off sites, head to the Diaper Bank website.