Catholic Charities Hosts Diaper Collection Event in Grand Rapids

News Summary

Catholic Charities West Michigan will hold its second annual ‘Top Off the Truck’ diaper collection event at St. Gianna’s No Cost Baby Boutique. The event aims to support families by alleviating the high costs of diaper essentials. With community engagement in mind, it includes food, activities, and fun, while addressing the ongoing heat advisory and air quality warnings in the area. Residents are encouraged to contribute and enjoy safer weather conditions forecasted later in the week.

Grand Rapids, Michigan – Catholic Charities West Michigan is set to hold their second annual “Top Off the Truck” diaper collection event on Wednesday, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at St. Gianna’s No Cost Baby Boutique. This event aims to alleviate the financial burden of diaper costs for families, which can exceed $100 monthly, by encouraging community support through donations.

In addition to collecting diapers, the event promises a festive atmosphere with barbecue food, Kona Ice, a photo booth, permanent jewelry, and a variety of other activities. Community members are invited to participate and contribute to a cause that supports local families in need.

As the diaper collection event approaches, residents in the region are facing a Heat Advisory from noon to 9 p.m. for all Central and Southern Lower Michigan due to high temperatures exceeding 90 degrees. The heat index in Grand Rapids is expected to reach 103 degrees on July 24, coupled with high humidity levels, making the conditions potentially dangerous for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Compounding the situation, an Air Quality Alert has been issued, warning of unhealthy levels of wildfire smoke in the area. The National Weather Service advises individuals with respiratory issues to limit strenuous activities and to avoid burning brush during this period of heightened air pollution.

The current weather trend has seen multiple stretches of 90-degree days this summer, with Grand Rapids and Holland recording their 10th such day and Kalamazoo their 8th. Compared to previous summers, 2025 has experienced unusual heat patterns, including a notably warm four-day stretch in June where night temperatures remained above 70 degrees.

Relief from the heat is anticipated later this week with a cold front expected to lower temperatures to the upper 70s and overnight lows dipping to around the 50s. This change will also bring a significant drop in dew points, leading to more comfortable and less humid conditions.

Looking ahead, the National Weather Service has warned of potential severe weather conditions on July 24, with damaging thunderstorm winds and localized flooding possible in parts of the Great Lakes and central Plains. The forecast predicts heavy rain, gusty winds up to 60 mph, lightning, and the potential for hail or tornadoes.

Following the severe weather, drier conditions are expected to return, providing a respite from the recent heatwave. As the end of July approaches, the weather outlook indicates highs in the upper 70s to lower 80s across Michigan, allowing residents to better enjoy community events like the diaper collection.

The “Top Off the Truck” event not only emphasizes community support but also showcases a commitment to addressing the needs of parents and families facing financial challenges in acquiring essential baby supplies. With the added elements of fun and engagement, the event is poised to draw participation from many in the West Michigan area, reinforcing local ties and collective effort during a time marked by extreme weather.

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• Weather.com: Grand Rapids, MN
• Wikipedia: Weather
• Fox17 Online: More 90 Degree Days
• Google Search: Extreme Weather News
• Freep: Michigan Forecast
• Google Scholar: Severe Weather Forecasts
• Lansing State Journal: Thunderstorms Forecast
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Climate Change