Adult incontinence supplies are one of the most needed and least donated categories of hygiene items. Neither SNAP nor Medicare Part B typically covers them for community-dwelling adults (Medicaid sometimes does, with limits). Here's a practical guide to finding where your donation will be used immediately.
The fastest approach is to call two or three types of organizations in your area and ask directly. Most will say yes immediately if they can accept the donation. Here's who to call:
Hospice providers care for people at end of life, and many patients have incontinence needs. Hospice agencies sometimes coordinate donations of supplies for patients whose coverage has gaps or whose families are struggling to keep up with costs. Call your local hospice provider and ask whether they have a mechanism for accepting supply donations for patients.
Centers for Independent Living (CILs) and disability services organizations support people with physical disabilities living in the community. Some coordinate supply programs or know of members who need incontinence supplies but can't access them through Medicaid. Find your local CIL at ilru.org/projects/cil-net/cil-center-and-association-directory.
Church pantries and religious social services programs often distribute hygiene items alongside food. Catholic Charities, Jewish Family Services, and similar faith-based organizations run supply programs in most mid-size and large cities. Call and ask if they accept adult hygiene product donations.
Post on your neighborhood's Buy Nothing group or Nextdoor — someone with a family member in need will often respond within hours. Freecycle works similarly. These platforms connect you directly with individuals rather than organizations, which works well for items that organizations have to decline due to policies around opened packages or non-standard sizes.
Last updated May 2026. Eldercare locator at eldercare.acl.gov. CIL directory at ilru.org. Errors: [email protected]
Adult incontinence products are the third most requested item at food banks and social service organizations after food and clothing — yet they're almost never covered by food assistance programs. Medicaid covers some incontinence supplies for enrolled individuals, but the reimbursement rates are low, quantities are limited, and coverage gaps leave many seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income adults without adequate supplies. A single package of adult diapers can cost $30–$50 at retail, making them a significant financial burden for people on fixed incomes.
Many food banks have added health and hygiene sections in recent years. Feeding America member food banks increasingly distribute adult incontinence products alongside food. Call your local food bank and ask specifically about their hygiene or dignity product program — not all food banks publicize this widely. Bring sealed, unopened packages in adult sizes (M, L, XL are most needed; small adult is less commonly needed).
Every US county has an Area Agency on Aging (AAA) that coordinates services for older adults. Many AAAs operate supply closets or partner with nonprofits that distribute hygiene products to homebound seniors. Find your local AAA through eldercare.acl.gov. They can tell you exactly what they need and where to bring it.
Home health agencies often have clients who need incontinence supplies but can't always get adequate quantities through insurance. Hospice programs in particular welcome donations of sealed adult diapers because their patients' needs change rapidly and supplies don't always match. Call the intake coordinator at your local hospice program.
Homeless shelters serve a population that includes many elderly and disabled individuals with incontinence needs. Urban shelters almost always have immediate need for sealed adult hygiene products. Men's shelters, family shelters, and senior-focused shelters are all potential recipients.
The National Diaper Bank Network (NDBN) has begun expanding from infant diapers to adult incontinence products. Search NDBN's locator at nationaldiaperbanknetwork.org for a program near you. Some NDBN members have adult product programs; others are working to add them.