Changing the game: Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Kroger team up to score 50,000 diapers for local families in need

Beginning today, Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E) is teaming up once again with Kroger to tip off a diaper drive to collect 50,000 diapers for central Indiana families in need.

According to the Indiana Diaper Bank, one in two Hoosier families struggle to provide clean diapers for their baby, a challenge that can lead to health concerns and deepen financial hardship. Hoosiers can help those in need by dropping off diapers, with sizes 5 and 6 being the most needed, and wipes in donation bins located at participating Kroger locations through May 3.

“Parents shouldn’t have to play defense when it comes to providing food or diapers for their children,” said Tracy Ellis-Ward, a senior vice president at PS&E. “That’s why we are once again partnering with Kroger to provide this critical assist for local families and give more babies a fair shot at a healthy start.”

In 2024, PS&E and Kroger partnered for their first-ever diaper drive, collecting and donating 30,000 diapers to help those in need. This year, the partners are aiming even higher with a goal of distributing 50,000 diapers.

“Diapers are such a basic need for a baby’s good health,” Kroger Central Division President Colleen Juergensen said. “As a grandma, I can understand how the expense of diapers might challenge struggling families. So, Kroger is honored to again join the Pacers, the Diaper Bank and our generous customers to assist families at such a crucial time in every baby’s development.”

The Indiana Diaper Bank will distribute donated diapers to its community partners like food pantries, community centers, day care and foster care programs, and homeless and domestic violence shelters. To make a monetary donation, Hoosiers can visit givebutter.com/PacersSportsEntertainmentDiaperDrive2025 where just $1 can buy four diapers.

“We are incredibly grateful to Kroger, Pacers Sports & Entertainment, and our community for helping meet the need for the one in two families in Indiana in diaper need,” Indiana Diaper Bank CEO Ashley Burns said. “This partnership reflects the heart of our mission – working together to eliminate diaper need to make sure every child is happy and healthy.”