RIVER FALLS - United Way St. Croix & Red Cedar Valleys (UW Valleys), the River Falls Rotary Club, and Ezekiel Lutheran Church are thrilled to announce the incredible success of the city-wide diaper and baby wipes drive held from Oct. 7 to Nov. 18, 2024.

The drive brought together the River Falls community, including local churches and schools, to support the UW Valleys Diaper Bank and provide essential supplies to families in need. Participating organizations included River Falls area churches, along with Greenwood, Montessori, Rocky Branch, Westside Elementary Schools, and St. Bridget Parish School.

The initial goal was to collect 15,000 diapers and 15,000 baby wipes, but the community’s generosity far exceeded expectations. A remarkable total of 47,665 diapers and 62,640 baby wipes were donated!

Rocky Branch Elementary School emerged as the top contributor, donating an impressive 14,744 diapers. Among individual classrooms, Ms. Thompson’s first-grade class at Rocky Branch led the way with the highest number of diapers donated — a total of 1,880 diapers.

“We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming generosity of our community,” said Linda Yde, River Falls Rotary President. “This drive has made a significant impact on families in need, and it’s inspiring to see how our local schools, churches, and businesses came together to help support one another.”

The donations will directly benefit the UW Valleys Diaper Bank, helping to provide vital assistance to families throughout the River Falls area. The success of this drive highlights the spirit of collaboration and community that makes River Falls such a special place.

Submitted by Linda Yde