A citywide diaper drive kicked off in Milford Friday, with the goal of collecting 60,000 diapers for local families in need by Sept. 30.

The drive is a joint effort by state leaders and the United Way of Milford.

Organizers say one in three American families struggle to afford diapers. In Milford alone, about 26 percent of the community is at that struggling level, according to Gary Johnson of the United Way.

Organizers say many assistance programs do not cover the cost of diapers, which can cost families nearly $100 per month.

The National Diaper Bank Network says many parents especially struggle when they are required to provide a daily supply of disposable diapers at their child’s care center.

"You have your monthly expenses, your rent, your utilities,” says State Rep. Kim Rose. “You need formula and food for children, and quite frankly, diapers are the last thing you can afford."

One Connecticut mom ponders about those families that are really struggling financially and have to conserve the amount of diapers they use. “That's unthinkable,” she says. “It’s not safe - your baby can get terrible rashes."

News 12 Connecticut is told diaper donations of any size can be dropped off at the United Way in Milford or at a red United Way drop-off box.