For over a decade, Victor Velivis has been dedicated to the Utah Diaper Bank, a nonprofit he founded in 2013. After retiring in 2017, he began volunteering full-time, ensuring families in Utah have access to essential diapers. However, as he has aged, the physical demands of the job have become heavier.
“The pallets feel a little heavier now. My knees ache a bit more,” Velivis shared with the Deseret News. With most volunteers also older, he knew the future of the diaper bank needed careful planning.
Recently, Velivis found his answer. At the annual HomeAid Utah Diaper Drive in Draper, the Utah Food Bank announced it would take over the diaper bank, integrating its operations into a new UFB Diaper Program. This change promises to expand diaper distribution across the state and keep the mission alive and thriving.
“I’ve always worried about whether it would keep going after I’m gone,” he said. “Now I know it will not only continue but also grow.”
The Utah Food Bank, established in 1904, has a solid reputation for fighting hunger statewide. In 2023, it provided 54.6 million meals through its network of food distribution centers. With its infrastructure and community connections, it is well-equipped to enhance diaper delivery statewide.
The Utah Diaper Bank has experienced remarkable growth, going from distributing 11,000 diapers in its first year to nearly 2 million in 2024. Despite this expansion, demand has continued to outpace resources, making the transition to the Utah Food Bank a logical step.
Ginette Bott, the Utah Food Bank’s President and CEO, expressed her commitment to honoring the diaper bank’s legacy. “Through the integration of the Utah Diaper Bank, we will launch the UFB Diaper Program. Families won’t have to choose between feeding their children or keeping them clean, allowing them to focus on building healthy futures.”
Since its inception, the Utah Diaper Bank has handed out over 10 million diapers to families in need. Velivis thanked the community for their support, urging them to continue their contributions under the new leadership.
“We are fortunate that the Utah Food Bank is taking over,” he said. “This ensures growth and a lasting impact.”
Community partners are also optimistic about the transition. Brian Diggs, executive director of HomeAid Utah, emphasized their commitment to community support.
“This transition signals a new chapter for a mission that is vital for many families in Utah,” he noted.
For Velivis and countless Utah families, this transition is reassuring. A mission born out of retirement is now set to thrive for years to come, helping the next generation in Utah.
Source link
Utah,Family,Lifestyle,Health
