In recognition of National Diaper Need Awareness Week and the start of a new school year, we discuss the nationwide issues of diaper need and period poverty. Dr. Tabitha Poole and Lacey Gero are passionate about these issues and share the stats and resources from the National Diaper Bank Network and the advocacy on basic needs informed care. Listen to find out how you can be a changemaker in this space.
Meet our guests:
Tabitha Poole, DNP, RNC-OB, C-EFM
Dr. Tabitha Poole has dedicated her career to Obstetrics and Neonatal care. She has extensive experience in these areas and currently serves as the director of Women’s Services at a hospital in central Texas as well as a clinical instructor for obstetrics in a BSN program.
Driven by a deep passion for human rights and health equity, Dr. Poole actively contributes to this cause through her clinical practice, leadership, advocacy work, and education provision. As a forever student, she continuously seeks to expand her knowledge and skills in order to better serve and advocate for her patients and the community. Dr. Poole serves on multiple AWHONN committees and is an AWHONN SIG chair and co-leader of her local chapter.
Lacey Gero, MPH, CHES
Lacey Gero is the Director of Government Relations at the National Diaper Bank Network, where she passionately advocates for policies that alleviate diaper need and period poverty in the United States. With a background in public health and a deep commitment to social justice, Lacey leverages her expertise in legislative processes and community engagement to collaborate with state governments, lawmakers, and basic needs banks.
Episode Resources
- National Diaper Bank Network
- Diaper Need Awareness Week (September)
- Alliance for Period Supplies
- Period Poverty Awareness Week (May)
- Basic Needs Informed Care Curriculum
- CARES Act and Menstrual Care Products
- AWHONN on the Hill
- AWHONN SBAR for Respectful Maternity Care for the Patient With Unmet Basic Needs
- Texas Nurses Association
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- States to Provide Diapers through Medicaid
- Biel, J. (2024). A kids book about periods. DK Children and A Kids Co.
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