Kearney police officers are now carrying diapers and other baby supplies in their patrol vehicles to help local families in need.

The Kearney Police Department is working with the Kearney School District’s Early Education Center and Parents as Teachers program to stock patrol vehicles with care packages officers can give to parents who need extra support.

Police say the goal is to offer immediate help while connecting families with child development resources and programs that can provide support beyond an officer’s initial visit.

One of those programs, Happy Bottoms, provides free diapers each month to eligible families. Families with children from birth through age 3 may qualify for 75 diapers or 50 pull-ups per month. Children who are 4 years old and have documented developmental disabilities may also be eligible.

Anyone who needs diapers or pull-ups, or knows a family who does, can use the Happy Bottoms sign-up form to apply.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.