Diaper Distribution Demonstration Research Pilot (DDDRP)

The Diaper Distribution Demonstration and Research Pilot is a federal funding opportunity administered by the Administration for Children and Families within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through its Office of Community Services. The program is designed as a cooperative agreement to test and evaluate expanded diaper distribution services for low income families across the United States. It reflects a broader federal priority to improve child health outcomes, family stability, and economic mobility by addressing a basic but often unmet need. The initiative is grounded in research indicating that a significant portion of families with young children lack consistent access to sufficient diapers, which can negatively impact health, childcare participation, and financial well being. The primary purpose of the program is to support Community Action Agencies, CSBG state associations, and eligible tribal and territorial entities in building or expanding diaper distribution networks. Funded projects must deliver a regular and sufficient supply of diapers to eligible residents while also connecting families to supportive services such as employment assistance, early childhood programs, and social services. The program requires a structured approach that includes partnerships with local organizations, bulk purchasing strategies, and coordinated referral systems to strengthen outcomes beyond material assistance. Funding under this opportunity is provided through cooperative agreements with substantial federal involvement. The total program funding is approximately twenty nine million dollars, with individual awards ranging from five hundred thousand dollars to two million dollars. Projects are expected to operate over a three year period. Funds may primarily be used for purchasing and distributing diapers and diapering supplies, while up to fifteen percent can support administrative and coordination activities such as enrollment, data collection, and service referrals. Certain costs, including construction and real property acquisition, are not allowable. Additionally, recipients must contribute a nine percent match of total project costs through cash or in kind contributions. Eligibility is limited to specific organizational types including Community Services Block Grant state associations, Community Action Agencies, and certain tribes and territories with prior CSBG funding. Applications must demonstrate collaboration with diaper distribution partners and include formal agreements outlining roles, responsibilities, and accountability measures. Individuals, federal entities, and foreign organizations are not eligible. Applicants must also demonstrate capacity to manage partnerships, deliver consistent monthly distributions, and participate fully in a federal evaluation component that measures both implementation and impact. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov by September 15, 2026, with electronic submissions due by 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Applicants must complete registration with both SAM.gov and Grants.gov prior to submission. The application package includes a detailed project narrative, budget justification, and multiple attachments such as organizational capacity documentation, third party agreements, and proof of nonprofit status where applicable. Applications are evaluated through a competitive merit review process based on criteria including program design, organizational capacity, budget justification, and alignment with federal priorities. Evaluation and award decisions involve both an initial compliance review and a scored merit review conducted by a panel. Projects are assessed on their ability to address diaper need, implement effective partnerships, build infrastructure, and measure outcomes. Additional consideration is given to geographic distribution, service to underserved populations, and prior performance. Successful applicants will receive a Notice of Award and must comply with federal reporting requirements, including quarterly performance and financial reporting, as well as participation in a longitudinal evaluation study. The program is expected to begin on November 1, 2026, following the award process. Recipients will be required to implement monthly diaper distribution, maintain ongoing engagement with enrolled families, and track detailed service data. The initiative is positioned as both a service delivery model and a research pilot, meaning that participation in evaluation activities is mandatory and central to the program’s goals.

Focus on strong partner MOUs, clear diaper distribution logistics, and robust data tracking capacity aligned with evaluation requirements