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In search of a gift? Shop our store of shirts, onesies, and other milk bank branded novelties. Your purchase helps provide life-saving pasteurized donor human milk to babies in the Pacific Northwest. 100% of proceeds go to helping fragile infants survive. Shop Events | Community Room | Baby Café | Tour The Milk Bank | Meet Millie | Resources | Shop In search of a gift? Shop our store of shirts, onesies, and other milk bank branded novelties. Your purchase helps provide life-saving pasteurized donor human milk to babies in the Pacific Northwest. 100% of proceeds go to helping fragile infants survive. millieonesie baby onesie with Millie the Milk Drop holding an umbrella mug coffee mug that says I am in my milk donor era onesie baby onesie that says nwmmb in rainbow colors Shop Our Store

​NWMMB has three programs to meet the needs of outpatient families. Milk volume for each program is based on availability and is subject to change. Milk to Go for Providers Outpatient Milk Orders | Hospital Milk Orders NWMMB has three programs to meet the needs of outpatient families. Milk volume for each program is based on availability and is subject to change. Milk volumes below are valid for prescriptions written on or after today's date. Please choose from the menu below to access the prescription forms and upload documents link. You may also fax documents to 503-469-0962. THE BABY IS UNDER 4 WEEKS OLD Up to 40 oz per baby, one time only* An RX is required *volume is based on milk availability and prioritization of hospitalized infants Up to 100 oz per baby, one time only* An RX and chart notes are required *volume is based on milk availability and prioritization of hospitalized infants THE BABY IS UNDER 8 WEEKS OLD AND WAS: born premature (<35weeks) spent time in the NICU IUGR SGA has significant weight loss (>10% at 4+ weeks) THE BABY HAS A CRITICAL MEDICAL NEED: Please see a list of critical medical needs here Volume is based on need and availability An RX, Statement of Medical Need, and chart notes are required Milk to Go Program RX Upload RX & Chart Notes The baby is under 8 weeks old AND was: born premature (<35weeks) IUGR SGA has significant weight loss or spent time in the NICU Up to 100 oz per baby, one time only An RX and chart notes are required. Milk to Go Plus RX Looking for additional information about outpatient milk orders? Milk to Go FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about donating milk, receiving milk, and milk banking. Milk To Go FAQs Is donor milk safe for my baby? Yes! Donor milk from Northwest Mothers Milk Bank is very safe.Hospitals across the Pacific Northwest and Mountain West region usepasteurized donor milk from NWMMB. We follow strict screening and processing guidelines set by the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA). (https://www.hmbana.org/)These standards are based on guidance from the CDC, FDA, and the blood and tissue industries. Here’s how we make sure milk is safe: • Donors complete detailed medical and lifestyle histories • All donors are blood tested for viruses that can be passed through milk • Milk is gently pasteurized to kill any harmful bacteria or viruses • Every batch is tested by an independent lab before it's given to babies We take every step possible to ensure safety and quality. Learn more about our safety process here.(https://www.donatemilk.org/safety-quality) Will my baby benefit from receiving donor milk? Yes, human milk is the best nutrition for all babies—especially in the early days. Donor milk can be especially helpful during the time when your own milk supply is being established. For some babies with critical medical needs donor milk can make a big difference in their health outcomes. Talk with your baby’s healthcare provider or lactation consultant to see if donor milk is right for your situation. Every baby’s needs are different, and donor milk is often used as a short-term support. Why is there a limit on the amount of donor milk available to my baby? We know how important it is to make sure your baby gets the best possible start, and we’re here to support you. Donor milk is a precious gift from generous parents in our community who’ve chosen to help others. While we work hard to encourage milk donation, it’s not an unlimited resource. Because of this, we prioritize babies in hospitals and those who are critically ill—where donor milk can be life-saving. Donor milk is typically intended for short-term use. Think of it as a bridge—something to help you meet your baby’s needs now while you work toward your long-term feeding plan. We're here to help support you during that transition. How do I get donor milk for my baby? You’ll need a prescription from your baby’s healthcare provider (and possibly some additional documentation). Visit our Outpatient Program page to see which program fits your needs and what is required from your healthcare provider. Make sure to review our Notice of Privacy Practices as well. Where do I go to get donor milk? Pasteurized donor human milk is available: • Directly from Northwest Mothers Milk Bank in Tigard, Oregon. Donor milk can be picked up locally or shipped to families throughout the Pacific Northwest. • From one of our Donor Milk Distribution Sites (https://www.donatemilk.org/milk-distribution-sites) Our mission is to make access to donor milk easier for every family who needs it. Why is there a cost for donor milk? While donated milk is given freely by generous parents, making it safe for babies requires many important steps. The processing fee helps cover: • Donor screening and lab testing • Pasteurization and safety checks • Staffing, equipment, and community outreach Every ounce of milk goes through careful handling to ensure it’s safe and ready for your baby. Will my health insurance cover donor milk? Most insurance providers do not currently cover donor milk for outpatient babies, though there are some exceptions. NWMMB does not bill third-party insurers, but we can help you gather the paperwork you will need if you choose to submit a claim. However: • Some babies have critical medical needs that meet insurance guidelines for receiving donor milk. A call to your insurance benefit helpline can provide that information. • You may be able to use an FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or HSA (Health Savings Account) to purchase for donor milk • You can submit a claim to your insurance for possible reimbursement • The billing code (HCPC) for pasteurized donor human milk is T2101 Does NWMMB offer financial assistance? Yes. We want every baby to have access to the milk they need. If the cost is a barrier, please call us at (800) 204-4444—we’ll help you apply to the Community Care program (https://www.donatemilk.org/community-care)that best fits your situation. For families facing serious medical or financial challenges, Evie’s Fund (https://www.donatemilk.org/evies-fund)may be able to help. Call us at (503) 469-0955 or toll-free at (800) 204-4444 to learn more and apply. Donor milk helped my family—how can I pay it forward? We’re so glad donor milk made a difference for your baby. One of the most powerful ways to give back is by sharing your story—(https://form.jotform.com/80165826106151)your voice can inspire future milk donors and raise awareness about the importance of nonprofit milk banking. If you're able to donate milk, we’d love to hear from you.(https://www.donatemilk.org/donate-milk) Many of our amazing donors once received milk themselves and choose to give back when they can. You can also support families by making a financial donation. (https://www.donatemilk.org/donate-money)Every gift helps us provide donor milk to babies in need through our Community Care programs. Together, we can make sure more babies get the healthy start they deserve. Need to order milk for your baby? Outpatient Milk Orders

We love visitors and welcome tours. We have a large viewing window that looks directly into our milk processing room - where the magic happens! Tour The Milk Bank Events | Community Room | Baby Café | Tour The Milk Bank | Meet Millie | Resources | Shop We love visitors and welcome tours. We have a large viewing window that looks directly into our milk processing room - where the magic happens! Follow Northwest Mothers Milk Bank on Instagram for the latest. Follow NWMMB

As board members, you are our most valued volunteers! To help us track the impact of volunteer time at Northwest Mothers Milk Bank, we are asking all board members to record their board service time once per quarter. Please round your time to the nearest .5 hour increment. Track Activity As board members, you are our most valued volunteers! To help us track the impact of volunteer time at Northwest Mothers Milk Bank, we are asking all board members to record their board service time since the last regularly scheduled board meeting. Please round your time to the nearest .5 hour increment. Track Your Time Use the following dates to record your time in the form below: January total hours from November thru January March total hours from January thru March May total hours from March thru May July total hours from May thru July September total hours from July thru September November total hours from September thru November We’re grateful to have you on our team improving the health and survival of the Pacific Northwest’s most vulnerable infants.

NWMMB is proud to take part in Willamette Week's Give!Guide, an annual end-of-year giving event for nonprofits in the Portland metro area. This grassroots campaign is supported by local businesses, provides incentives to donors, and emphasizes giving by younger folks to build a culture of engagement. Every dollar still goes directly to our organization to support the most important thing we do: getting safe, pasteurized donor milk to the babies who need it most! Give!Guide Northwest Mothers Milk Bank is proud to take part in Willamette Week's Give!Guide, an annual end-of-year giving event for nonprofits in the Portland metro area. This grassroots campaign is supported by local businesses, provides incentives to donors, and emphasizes giving by younger folks to build a culture of engagement. From November 1st until the end of the year, please submit your donations through our Give!Guide page below. Every dollar still goes directly to our organization to support the most important thing we do: getting safe, pasteurized donor milk to the babies who need it most! Donate Today

All babies deserve access to the best nutrition possible. You can help. We have a spring fundraising goal of $35,000 to support access to safe, pasteurized donor milk for the most fragile babies with medical need across the Pacific NW. Your gift helps ensure that all babies have a chance to thrive.  Chance To Thrive All babies deserve a chance to thrive. As the only nonprofit, community-based milk bank in the Pacific Northwest, we couldn’t exist without your support. Mothers and birthing parents whose babies arrive prematurely are often unable to produce breast milk at the time when their fragile babies need it most. In these cases, donor milk can be life-saving. In the Pacific NW, one in eight babies is born premature. These fragile newborns deserve all the support possible for healthy outcomes. All babies deserve access to the best nutrition possible. You can help. We have a spring fundraising goal of $35,000 to support access to safe, pasteurized donor milk for the most fragile babies with medical need across the Pacific NW. Your gift helps ensure that all babies have a chance to thrive. All donors who give during our spring Chance to Thrive appeal will be entered into our grand prize drawing. Milk donors get an extra chance to win a special prize! Donate Now There are many ways to give Live in Washington? You can support us through Give BIG WA ! Recommend a gift from your Donor Advised Fund . Give Crypto or Stock to make a BIG difference for TINY babies with a tax-advantaged gift. Make a lifetime of difference by remembering Northwest Mothers Milk Bank in your will. Many employers in our region will match their employees’ donations. Grand Prize Everyone who gives a donation to our spring appeal between April 19 and May 19 will be entered into our grand prize drawing – an outdoor family fun pack. Lots of goodies to help you enjoy the outdoors with family and friends! Weber Kettle Grill Badminton Set Light-up Bocce Ball Set Corkcicle Combo Set Hammock Outdoor Blanket Plastic Tumbler Set Special Prize for Milk Donors! We have a special prize ONLY for our milk donors. If you are a milk donor and you give a financial donation on or before May 19 , you get an EXTRA chance to win. Milk donors who give will get a chance to win a beautiful custom baby quilt. This quilt was lovingly made by former NWMMB staff member Emily Hoppe of So Sunny Quilts . Thank you Emily!

During your lifetime, you can recommend a grant from your donor-advised fund (DAF) to impact the health and survival of vulnerable infants across the Pacific Northwest. Donor Advised Funds During your lifetime, you can recommend a grant from your donor-advised fund (DAF) to impact the health and survival of vulnerable infants across the Pacific Northwest. When making a gift to Northwest Mothers Milk Bank from your DAF, please be sure include our Federal Tax ID #26-3458029. Did you know? Over $160 Billion sits in donor advised funds. Let’s put that money to work. If you are a DAF holder, you can make your gifts go farther with a matching grant from the #HalfmyDAF challenge. They have a pool of $2 million to give to nonprofits in 2022. Can you help give Northwest Mothers Milk Bank a chance at those matching funds? Learn How to Match Funds

Explore our 2020 Impact Report and learn more about our year. 2020 Impact Report

Hospitals and clinics can expand their partnership with Northwest Mothers Milk Bank by hosting a Milk Drop. are convenient locations throughout the Pacific Northwest where approved doThese drop sites keep the milk frozen and safe until it can be transferred to Northwest Mothers Milk Bank in Tigard. Host a Milk Drop Hospitals and clinics can expand their partnership with Northwest Mothers Milk Bank by hosting a Milk Drop. Our Milk Drops are convenient locations throughout the Pacific Northwest where approved donors can drop off their milk donations. These drop sites keep the milk frozen and safe until it can be transferred to Northwest Mothers Milk Bank  in Tigard. Milk Drops are an integral component of the milk donation process! They provide a friendly face in the community, help to identify potential milk donors, and simplify the donation process for donors who don’t live near Northwest Mothers Milk Bank. Milk Drops offer a trusted and convenient place for milk donors who have completed all screening steps to drop off a milk donation. Hosting a Milk Drop offers a way for hospitals and clinics to assure there is plenty of safe, pasteurized milk available for medically fragile babies across the Pacific Northwest. Once a milk donation is received, the host assures the milk remains safe and frozen, then prepares it for shipment to the milk bank by packing it in insulated containers. Once it reaches NWMMB, the milk is pasteurized, tested, and distributed to babies in need across the Northwest. Other than staff or volunteer time, NWMMB provides all materials and supplies needed to host a milk drop, including the freezer. Milk Drops can be found across the Pacific Northwest, but there is always a need for additional locations. Your team can play an important role in nonprofit milk banking, by opening your doors as a community Milk Drop! Order Supplies — PDF Order Supplies — Fillable Where are the Milk Drops located? Milk Drops can be found across the Pacific Northwest, but there is always a need for additional locations. What does hosting a Milk Drop mean for you? Enhancing your lactation program and services to parents and children Offering joint press release and social media opportunities to publicize your Milk Drop Supporting your baby-friendly practices Helping spread the word about milk donation What do you need to host a Milk Drop? An accessible area for dropping off milk donations Space to accommodate a small freezer, thermometer, and shipping supplies Staff or volunteers who can receive, pack, and ship milk donations NWMMB accepts responsibility for all donor screening, milk processing, and distribution. All record keeping supplies, shipping supplies, and informational materials are provided. To learn more, please call NWMMB at (503) 469-0955 (toll-free (800) 204-4444 ) or send a message to joanne@nwmmb.org Is your facility interested in hosting a milk distribution site? Host A Distribution Site

Hospitals with NICUs and/or Mother/Baby Units can partner with Northwest Mothers Milk Bank to provide the best alternative to mother’s own milk for newborns and infants who require supplemental feedings. Hospitals For Healthcare Providers | For Hospitals | Pump Rentals | Media | In The News | FAQs | Blo g Hospitals with NICUs and/or Mother/Baby Care Units can partner with Northwest Mothers Milk Bank to provide the best alternative to mother’s own milk for newborns and infants who require supplemental feedings. Safe, pasteurized donor human milk from NWMMB offers optimum safety and quality in nutrition care to the babies who need it most, second only to their mother’s own milk. Our Nutritional Analysis Program follows evidence-based standards recommended by the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) and offers the clinician specific information about the macronutrient level of the donor milk received. How a hospital can benefit from using safe, pasteurized donor human milk from Northwest Mothers Milk Bank: Engage in a partnership with an organization whose mission is to improve the health and survival of the Northwest’s most vulnerable babies. Receive donor human milk that is locally sourced from qualified milk donors who are healthy and thoroughly screened and tested. Access safe, high quality donor human milk achieved by evidence-based pasteurization techniques that have a 35-year record of excellence and safety and are compliant with Food and Drug Administration and Center for Disease Control standards. Improve your hospital’s clinical nutrition care by knowing the specific protein and caloric values of the donor milk. Offer exclusive human milk feedings for vulnerable premature infants . Decrease costs of care associated with NICU patient stays and reduce NEC rates. Engage in a collective effort to assure that all infants in the Pacific Northwest who need human milk will have access to it. Order Milk Host a Milk Drop Host a Milk Distribution Site Safety & Quality Donor milk should be considered essential medicine for premature infants whose moms don't have enough. Donor milk can help prevent infection and promote healthy brain development. When I recommend donor milk to families in the hospital, they know we are doing everything we can to support them and their baby. — Dr. Stefanie Rogers, Neonatologist

We take safety seriously! From the moment a potential milk donor contacts our donor screening team until a bottle of pasteurized donor milk departs the milk bank for its final destination, we adhere to strict protocols to protect the safety and quality of the amazing milk donated to us by our genero Safety & Quality We take safety seriously! From the moment a potential milk donor contacts our donor screening team until a bottle of pasteurized donor milk departs the milk bank for its final destination, we adhere to strict protocols to protect the safety and quality of the amazing milk donated to us by our generous donors. We are not alone! We are accredited members of the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) , a network of nonprofit milk banks across the US and Canada. All HMBANA milk banks follow a strict set of “Guidelines for Human Milk Banking” to assure safety. We comply with and often exceed all measures set forth by HMBANA, which follow standards set forth by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and World Health Organization (WHO) . Follow the Milk below to see how we embrace safety and quality with each step. A verbal phone screening and a written questionnaire lets us get to know our donors well. They understand the important role their milk will play in a fragile infant’s health. Medical consent from healthcare providers confirms the donor's good health (and the health of their infant(s) if applicable). Serological testing for HIV 1/2, HTLV 1/2, Syphilis, & Hepatitis B & C by a CLIA Certified Laboratory further ensures the safety of our donors and their milk. Notice of Privacy Practices provided to all potential milk donors. Donor Qualification and Screening Individual containers of milk received are carefully handled and examined for quality and integrity. Each milk donation is logged into a secure electronic tracking system. Each deposit of milk is assigned its own unique identifier which follows it through its entire milk bank journey. Milk containers are safely stored in a freezer system at -18 degrees C until selected for processing. Milk Receiving Milk is thawed carefully and slowly under safe refrigerated temperatures until pourable. Temperatures are closely monitored and maintained throughout each processing step. Milk purity is achieved by carefully pouring thawed milk through a sanitized, food-safe strainer. Milk from multiple donors is combined together to achieve balanced and consistent nutrient levels. Milk is dispensed into heat-sanitized bottles that are safe for heating and freezing of milk. Both measured glass and BPA-free plastic bottles are used and considered optimum for infant feeding preparation. Milk Thawing, Pooling, and Processing Milk is treated by Holder pasteurization which warms milk rapidly, holds it at 62.5 degrees C for 30 minutes, then rapidly cools it to 4 Degrees C. This method kills bacteria and viruses but preserves important biological factors unique to human milk. Research shows that Holder pasteurization provides the optimum heat treatment to assure milk safety and protect the unique proteins and biologic factors that newborns need. Each bottled is labeled with nutritional information and a barcode that contains the milk’s unique identifiers. Heat Treatment Nutritional analysis is performed on each milk pool using full spectrum laser spectroscopy technology. Macronutrient testing is validated using reference methods approved by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists. Milk containing a higher fat and protein count is reserved for high-risk infants in the NICU. Careful and stringent quality checks are carried out for each batch of pasteurized milk. Each batch of milk undergoes quantitative bacterial analysis by a CLIA Certified Laboratory. Testing for Safety and Quality Once pasteurized, the milk remains deeply frozen at -20 degrees C while awaiting results of batch testing. Freezers are electronically monitored to assure optimal temperature ranges are maintained. Preventive controls, quality assurance checks, and accurate record keeping are verified to qualify milk for dispensation. Milk approved and ready for release is moved to dedicated freezers before orders are fulfilled and milk is dispensed. Milk Approval and Release Milk orders, either for hospitals or outpatients, are packed quickly into insulated containers or coolers. Dry ice is used to keep milk deeply frozen during transport. Temperature indicators and Cold Chain Verifications are included in all shipments to hospitals and outpatients handled by third-party carriers. We partner with FedEx and PeriShip to assure milk is transported quickly and safely overnight to areas all across Oregon, Washington, Alaska, and beyond. Shipping and Transport 100% compliance with Human Milk Banking Association of North America guidelines. Secure milk and equipment monitoring system and preventative controls Staff training and Certification in Food Safety Handling and Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMPs). FDA-certified pest management. Secure electronic medical database and barcoding system. Follows NWMMB Notice of Privacy Practices. Onsite Preventative Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI). Macronutrient validation by approved reference testing. Routine equipment validation and calibration Serological and microbiological testing performed by CLIA-certified laboratories. Quality Assurance Measures Useful Links Holder vs Shelf Stable Human Milk CDC Breastfeeding and Covid-19 Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Covid-19 Statement Evaluation for SARS-CoV-2 in Breast Milk From 18 Infected Women Learn more about COVID-19 and Human Milk. COVID-19 Information

Explore our 2022 Impact Report to learn more about our year. 2022 Impact Report

For upcoming events, news, and more, subscribe to receive our seasonal newsletter or drop us a line. Contact Us Our Mission | Staff & Board | Partners | Little Love Stories | Careers | Contact Us Get in Touch 15875 SW 74th Ave, Tigard, OR 97224 info@nwmmb.org | 800-204-4444 Send Message Thanks for reaching out! We will be in touch soon. Stay Connected For upcoming events, news, and more, subscribe to receive our seasonal newsletter Receive Our Newsletter Follow Us @nwmmb Load more

Baby Café is a free, drop-in, informal breastfeeding support group offering professional lactation care and peer social connection. Baby Café offers free full-spectrum breastfeeding/chestfeeding support from pregnancy to weaning. Baby Café welcomes exclusive pumping parents, working parents, and st Baby Caf é Events | Community Room | Baby Café | Tour The Milk Bank | Meet Millie | Resources | Shop Baby Café is a free, drop-in, informal breastfeeding support group offering professional lactation care and peer social connection. Baby Café offers free full-spectrum breastfeeding/chestfeeding support from pregnancy to weaning. Baby Café welcomes exclusive pumping parents, working parents, and stay-at-home parents of all cultures and lifestyles. Starting August 1st, our Baby Café will be open every Tuesday from 10 - 11:30 am. You are welcome to bring your little ones and a partner or support person. We hope to see you there! Our vision is that every U.S. community can offer parents free access to professional breastfeeding support, increasing breastfeeding rates, reducing disparities, and improving the health of its members. Check out the most recent adventures of Millie the Milk Drop! Follow Millie the Milk Drop

Hospitals can offer their newborn patients the best alternative to mother’s own milk by partnering with Northwest Mothers Milk Bank to provide pasteurized donor human milk. Most of the milk NWMMB processes is dispensed to hospitals with NICUs and/or Mother-Baby Units. Hospital Milk Orders Outpatient Milk Orders | Hospital Milk Orders Hospitals can offer their newborn patients the best alternative to mother’s own milk by partnering with Northwest Mothers Milk Bank to provide pasteurized donor human milk. Most of the milk NWMMB processes is dispensed to hospitals with NICUs and/or Mother-Baby Units. Order Milk Download Form Download and fill out a milk order form 1st Time Ordering? Call the milk bank to place your order at (800) 204-4444 Send Form Fax your form to (503) 469-0962 or email orders@nwmmb.org More Resources If you need more info, check out our Hospital Resources We deliver frozen, pasteurized human donor milk directly to hospitals in the greater Portland metro area weekly. We use FedEx with priority overnight shipping to assure timely and safe transit times for facilities in Oregon, Washington, Alaska, and beyond. Orders placed prior to 10 a.m. Monday- Thursday can be shipped with next-day arrival, however 48 hours notice is preferred when possible. Northwest Mothers Milk Bank is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization and our Tax ID # is 26-3458029 For more details about our evidence-based safety protocols that assure the safety and quality of donor milk from NWMMB, please see: Healthcare Provider Resources and Safety and Quality Useful Links HMBANA Common Diagnosis Codes used for ordering donor human milk Donor Human Milk for the High-Risk Infant Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk Hospital Request for Milk Order Form Donor milk should be considered essential medicine for premature infants whose moms don't have enough. Donor milk can help prevent infection and promote healthy brain development. When I recommend donor milk to families in the hospital, they know we are doing everything we can to support them and their baby. — Dr. Stefanie Rogers, Neonatologist

Mission Possible For Healthcare Providers | For Hospitals | Pump Rentals | Media | In The News | FAQs | Blog nwmmb Oct 23, 2023 3 min NWMMB Celebrates 10 Years! On Saturday, September 16th NWMMB threw a party to celebrate 10 years of serving babies throughout the Pacific Northwest. Delaney Hartmann Aug 1, 2022 4 min Protect, Promote, and Support Breastfeeding Northwest Mothers Milk Bank (NWMMB) advocates for human milk feeding for all infants. The bank works to educate families and communities. nwmmb Jun 17, 2022 4 min How NWMMB is Responding to Shortage of Breastmilk Substitutes (Infant formula) Focusing on immediate rapid relief is a way NWMMB is helping to ease anxiety and stress parents are feeling when they can’t access food. nwmmb Apr 4, 2022 4 min Expression of Care Program Northwest Mothers Milk Bank (NWMMB) is helping to remove barriers to breastfeeding for incarcerated mothers throughout the state of Oregon. nwmmb Feb 8, 2022 2 min Donor Milk Saves Lives There is a high demand for pasteurized breastmilk in the Pacific Northwest. nwmmb Jan 4, 2022 2 min Stepping Into 2022 As we carefully step into 2022, we celebrate our successes and look optimistically to the future. For upcoming events, news, and more, subscribe to The Droplet . Receive Our Newsletter

Sat, Aug 03 | Willamette Park (Boat Ramp and Dock) Boob Cruise 8:00 PM At sundown during World Breastfeeding Week, the Morrison Bridge lights turn purple and pink! After dark, come dressed in hot pink to match the lights and climb aboard—enjoy a signature cocktail, charcuterie cups, games, raffle prizes, boob-themed swag, and great company. Registration is closed See other events Time & Location Aug 03, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM Willamette Park (Boat Ramp and Dock), 6500 S Macadam Ave, Portland, OR 97239, USA About the event Ticket time: This ticket is for the 8:00 PM Boob Cruise! (If you're looking for the 9:30 cruise, click here.) What you get: 🥛 A free signature cocktail and crazy straw 🛍️ A goodie bag of boob swag 🧀 Charcuterie cups overflowing with cheese 🌊 A refreshing trip down the Willamette River on a warm summer night 🤡 Terrible puns 👯‍♀️ Excellent company What to do: 👚 Wear hot pink and/or safari wear ⌚ Meet at Willamette Park boat dock at your ticket time 🛥️ Check in and board The Reliant 🎯 Play party games, win prizes 🎟️ Collect raffle tickets 🌉 Sail under the Morrison Bridge, lit up pink 👶 Support your community milk bank Folks who come: 🎉 Have the BREAST plans for World Breastfeeding Week 🤦 Love boob puns 🤱 Care about moms, parents, babies, lactation, and human milk access 🦸 Become a critical part of NWMMB’s mission… … to improve the health and survival of the Northwest’s most vulnerable infants. We believe every baby deserves access to human milk. 1 in 11 Northwest infants is born premature, and when their parent’s own milk isn’t available, donor milk from an accredited milk bank like ours is the next best option to prevent disease and improve health outcomes. Your support ensures the availability of safe, screened donor milk, kept safe and nutritious using evidence-based practices for our littlest neighbors in over 80 hospitals across our region. So, hitch up your girls (or guys, or glands), and climb aboard! Set sail and see the sights with Northwest Mothers Milk Bank on… THE BOOB CRUISE! Read More > Share this event

Order Milk Quick View Outpatient Donor Milk (600 mls) Price $100.00 Quick View Outpatient Donor Milk (300 mls) Price $50.00

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Meet Arielle Milk Intake Coordinator ​ Live everyday to its fullest potential because you never know what tomorrow may bring is the quote that serves as Arielle’s personal mantra and sums up her positive outlook. She brings joy to our milk processing team. As a child she dreamed of being a fashion designer, until high school when she realized that no one really understood her fashion sense! ​ Favorite Cereal: Oh’s Favorite Fashion Trend: "Most definitely, Birkenstocks with socks, I still rock the look to this day!" ​ Favorite Place: " The beach is my happy place!"

Meet Nick Operations Manager ​ Nick’s friends describe him as analytical, quiet, and humble. He is a dog person and has an adorable new pup named Linus. If he were to give up his day job as our Operations Manager, he would host a late-night show featuring his Grandpa George. Together they would teach the audience simple and creative ways to fix things around the house. ​ Favorite Cereal: " I never turn down a big bowl of Count Chocula" Favorite Fashion Trend: “Cargo Shorts…as a dad they are just so practical when given things to hold onto.” ​ Which cartoon character would you choose to hang out with: “Bandit from Bluey. He could give me tips on being a better dad.”

Meet Brynn Recipient Coordinator ​ Brynn’s personal mantra is “When you feel helpless, help others”, which explains the compassion she brings to her position helping Northwest families to get milk for their babies. Gregarious and quick-witted Brynn would be an amazing talk show host! Her choice for her first guest: Kate McKinnon. ​ Favorite Cereal: Cinnamon Toast Crunch ​ Favorite Fashion Trend: Shoulder pads ​ Most Used Emoji: Crying/laughing emoji “when I can’t type “LOL” again” ​

Meet Faith milk recipient ​ "Donor milk was my baby’s first meal when she was born at 32 weeks. She was getting all the magic from the donor milk when I wasn’t able to produce enough for her and it helped her body get stronger. I was happy that donor milk was available at the time I wasn’t able to produce enough. Breast milk is the best milk. Whether it be yours or donors’ it’s still breastmilk and the best choice you can give your baby especially NICU babies." — Faith's mom, milk recipient

Meet Geoff Milk Intake & Shipping Coordinator ​ Geoff is everybody’s favorite dad at the milk bank. The quote above his desk reads, “just because you got the monkey off your back doesn’t mean the circus has left town!” He wanted to be a farmer when he grew up, but reading The Principles of Accounting changed his career path. Geoff makes sure our shelves are stocked and hospitals receive milk in a timely manner. Favorite Cereal: Life cereal Favorite Fashion Trend: “Definitely not bell-bottom jeans!” Most used Emoji: “What’s an emoji?”

Meet Michelle & Theodosia milk donor ​ "It felt like a beautiful, pay-it-forward thing. After my milk was so slow coming in, it felt like such an amazing blessing to not only have enough for my baby, but also have enough to share.” — Michelle, milk donor

Meet Sonia RD, LD, IBCLC, Donor Engagement Manager ​ It does not come as a surprise that Sonia’s friends describe her as warm, caring, and responsible. She takes great care of our amazing milk donors, taking time to learn their personal stories. Sonia’s French roots and stories of worldwide travel keep us entertained. Her favorite place visited was the jungle surrounding Chiang Mai, Thailand, which left her feeling like she was on a page from National Geographic. ​ Favorite Fashion Trend: “Gotta be bell bottom pants with leather platform sandals. They make a short gal look taller and cool.” Desired Superpower: Flying ​ Cartoon Character You Would Love to Hang With: Casper the Friendly Ghost ​

Strengthen Strengthening our community relationships. Building relationships with community partners requires time, trust, and active listening. NWMMB will extend our services to underserved communities and the organizations that support them. Created a community resource list on our website for BIPOC and LGTBQ+ breastfeeding support Implemented the Expression of Care program. Strengthen Strengthening our community relationships.

Meet Brandy & Callen milk donor & recipient ​ "Callen was born at 34 weeks due to pre-eclampsia. Because of severe lung prematurity he had to be on CPAP respiratory support for 9 days and was pretty sick for the first several days. He was given donor milk during the first few days of life until I could produce enough milk for him. I was so relieved to know donor milk would be available if it was needed, and when Callen arrived early and went to the NICU, I didnt have to stress about his nutrition. As a NICU nurse I see and know the value of donor milk in our infant population so that was really important to me. Once my milk supply was well established and it was apparent I had an excess, I also chose to become a donor. It was such a blessing to me to be able to give back and help other families." — Brandy, milk donor & recipient

Meet Madeline Shipping Assistant ​ No stranger to nonprofit work, Madeline dedicates herself to any mission she is involved in. She is the first to arrive in the morning and stays until all the shipments have been packed and delivered. She is a Hawaiian native, and the saying "Ohana Rules!" serves as her personal mantra. ​ Favorite Cereal: Steel-cut oatmeal One Meal to Eat Every Day for the Rest of Your Life: " Tender beef brisket, baked potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, broccoli and onions cooked with beef, homemade gravy and Parker House rolls with butter. Orgasmic!” ​ Desired Superpower: "Eat a lot, never get fat but stay healthy."

Meet Teresa Milk Processing Technician ​ Teresa’s dependability and great listening skills make her perfect for a team environment. Her coworkers love her for it and for her fashion sense! Her personal mantra comes from the Dalai Lama, “Be kind whenever possible, it is always possible." ​ Favorite Cereal: Quaker Oatmeal Squares One Meal to Eat Every Day for the Rest of Your Life: "Chicken, rice, au gratin potatoes and a goat cheese and beet salad." Cartoon Character You Would Love to Hang With: Linda Belcher from Bob’s Burgers. “I think she and I could really party!"

Meet Joanne BSN, IBCLC, Clinical Outreach Director joanne@nwmmb.org ​ Serving as an original NWMMB board member, Joanne was instrumental in establishing the only nonprofit milk bank in the Pacific Northwest. Friends and colleagues describe her as caring, reliable, energetic, and a friend to all furry creatures. She envisions Winnie the Pooh as an imaginary friend speaking wisdom to keep her humble and explain the truth. ​ Favorite Cereal: "Cheerios (serious childhood memories) but Grape Nuts (when healthy adult tendencies take control) ” Favorite Fashion Trend: Big hair ​ One Meal to Eat Every Day for the Rest of Your Life: "Wood-fired pizza, a leafy salad, a glass of pinot noir and a huge chunk of something chocolate-y for dessert."

Meet Aruna & Nila milk donor ​ “I understand how valuable breastmilk is and how many moms really struggle to give it to their little ones despite all the odds. This is another reason I wanted to donate, especially for all the preemies and NICU babies out there. Sharing is caring.” — Aruna, milk donor

Meet Jude milk recipient ​ "Literally the first question they asked me when Jude got admitted to the NICU was if I wanted him to have donor milk. I had no idea it was an option, but so relieved it was! It gave him a great start before my milk came in fully, without anything artificial like the formula they offer in the hospital. Breastmilk is liquid gold and if you need help with your baby getting breastmilk, donor milk is the next best option. Such an amazing resource!!" — Jude’s mom, recipient

Educate Educating ourselves about racism. ​ NWMMB is actively committed to educating ourselves about racism. As an organization we strive to be a change agent for building better communities and recognize the importance of understanding systems of oppression. ​ All NWMMB Board of Directors meetings have topics of diversity, equity, and inclusion on their bi-monthly agenda. All NWMMB staff participate in mandatory training sessions with Teela Foxworth of Foxworth Facilitations. NWMMB created a free lending library of books and films which focus on topics of racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. ​ Strengthen Strengthening our community relationships.

Meet Lesley BSN, IBCLC, Executive Director lesley@nwmmb.org ​ Lesley was a member of NWMMB's original board of directors, which was instrumental in bringing a milk bank to the Pacific Northwest. Lesley is passionate about milk banking and would like to live in a world where all babies have full bellies and chubby knees! Growing up, she dreamed of hanging out with Nancy Drew in her baby blue convertible, always prepared with a magnifying glass and a 5-spot in her wallet. ​ Favorite Cereal: Steel-cut oatmeal (don't forget the raisins!) Most Used Emoji: Nerd face Desired Superpower: Time travel

Examine Examining systems that play a role in perpetuating inequality . ​ NWMMB is committed to looking closely at our own systems that may play a role in perpetuating inequities. We will work together to change and improve our practices within the field of human milk banking. ​ NWMMB staff participate as active members on the Human Milk Banking Association of North America’s Equity Task Force. NWMMB created an internal Equity Task Force, composed of board members and staff. This committee meets monthly. Created an equity statement that was shared with all Board Directors and staff. Created a list of strategies to address inequity in milk banking practices.

Meet Gwen Courier & Shipping Assistant ​ Making sure milk gets from Point A to Point B is a big part of Gwen’s role and would love to possess the superpower of teleportation. i. Gwen is fun, witty and resourceful - traits she admires in Bugs Bunny, her favorite cartoon character. “Listen to your inner GPS that you were born with to help you navigate life, everything else is counter-intuitive noise” serves as her personal mantra. ​ Favorite Cereal: Blueberry Kashi What did you want to be when you grew up: An Olympic Ice Skater Favorite Fashion Trend: “High neck blouses with obnoxious broaches and Flock of Seagulls hair”

Identify Identifying barriers to breastfeeding and human donor milk access. Identifying barriers to breastfeeding and improving access to donor milk are critical to the success of a community-based milk bank. We will listen to the stories of our milk donors and donor milk recipients to better understand their personal struggles and how this can impact and improve our work. NWMMB staff participated in an exercise to understand barriers families may face when attempting to access donor milk. Feedback from this exercise was used to strengthen internal systems for providing community care. Evie’s Fund application made available on our website in an accessible format.

Advocate Advocating for all babies' right to human milk. NWMMB is passionate about advocating for all babies’ right to human milk, especially those in underserved populations. Change at local, state and national level requires education, perseverance and diligence. ​ NWMMB staff is in conversation with advocates within the state of Washington who are working with legislators to provide in-patient coverage for human donor milk.

Meet Maclean milk recipient ​ "Maclean Armand was born a month early. With dad’s adorable nose and mom’s blue eyes, this 6lb 5oz wonder was suddenly here. There were immediate concerns about his health, and it came as a shock that this seemingly perfect, ‘easy’ pregnancy yielded this little guy who needed serious medical attention. With all of the surprise, stress and sleeplessness, my body wasn’t yet producing the nutritious milk Maclean needed. We were supported with donor milk from NWMMB before we even left the hospital. After we left, we became humble, grateful recipients of Evie’s fund at NWMMB. As we shuffled daily from one appointment to the next, up to Maclean’s first two surgeries in May. The care, compassion and concern from the indelible staff here helped us through a part of this journey we never could have anticipated." — Maclean's parents, milk recipients

Meet Carrie, Hazel & Alexandria milk donor & recipient ​ "I was so grateful to have received donor milk for my babies. As I read more about the benefits of breastmilk I only became more thankful. I had already determined to do something for NWMMB to express my appreciation and pay it forward, but didn’t think I’d be able to make enough milk for two babies - let alone to have spare to donate. When my own milk did come in, it turned out I did in fact have extra, and lots of it. Every step along the way is a labor of love. After seeing it from both sides I realize that though breast milk is called liquid gold, it’s really liquid love. It felt like another mother was somewhere in the background giving her love to my babies when they received donor milk. Now that I’ve been fortunate enough to give, I feel like I’m doing a little part to care for another baby." — Carrie, milk donor & recipient

Meet Jacqui & Noelle milk donor & recipient ​ “I was so grateful that there was a woman out there that donated her milk. It felt like there was another woman watching out for my baby girl.” — Jaqui, milk donor & recipient