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- Subscribe to Newsletter | NWMMB
For upcoming events, news, and more, subscribe to receive our seasonal newsletter Subscribe Fill out this short form to stay up to date with all things NWMMB. We do not share or sell your contact information. View past issues of our quarterly newsletter, The Droplet, here: Fall'21 Spring '21 Summer '21 Summer '22 Fall/Winter 22 Spring/Summer '23
- World Breastfeeding Week | NWMMB
Celebrate World Breastfeeding Week with us on the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon! World Breastfeeding Week We are lighting up the night to highlight the importance of World Breastfeeding Week! August 1st through August 7th the Morrison Bridge, which spans the Willamette River, will be shining brightly to emphasize the critical importance of universal access to breastfeeding support for the health and well-being of infants worldwide. We invite you to share in the fun and spread the news about this unique tribute to all those who breastfeed, were breastfed and believe that babies deserve access to human milk. World Breastfeeding Week Media Kit NWMMB Boob Cruise Media Kit CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD OUR PHOTO ASSETS
- Donate Time | NWMMB
Northwest Mothers Milk Bank volunteers gain valuable work experience and in-depth knowledge about milk banking. Donate Time Donate Milk | Donate Money | Donate Time | Donate After A Loss Join our volunteer team! You’ll learn a ton about milk banking, gain valuable work experience, and meet some incredible people. Please note: We are currently FULL on volunteers. However, any interest forms will be held until the spring of 2025 for consideration for our summer Volunteer Squad, or in the event of a sooner unexpected volunteer opening. Thank you so much! Our volunteers are so vital. They help us further our mission to improve the health and survival of the Pacific Northwest’s most vulnerable infants. They’re a fun and committed group, too. Sign Me Up To Volunteer! Where Would You Like to Volunteer? Want to join our volunteer team, but uncertain which areas of the milk bank your skills and interests would flourish? View descriptions of areas where we could use volunteer help below. Then, click on the Apply to Volunteer link to indicate your area/s of interest, see our Covid guidelines, and get connected with our volunteer coordinator. CLERICAL/OFFICE You’re an admin and clerical whiz, and perhaps also one of those rare people with legible handwriting. Whether the task at hand be addressing or stamping envelopes, scanning documents, packaging gifts to honor our milk donors, or rolling bubble wrap around donor milk, you’re up for the task. EVENT SUPPORT A social butterfly or creative spirit, helping plan and participate in outreach, milk donor appreciation, fundraising and blood drive events makes your heart happy. FUNDRAISING Inspiring others to give to worthy causes is your strength. You recognize that our milk bank, as a nonprofit, couldn't exist without our community’s financial support. Passionate about getting donor human milk into the hands of more babies who need it, you find joy in writing thank you cards, making thank you calls, setting up peer-to-peer fundraising pages, or asking for donations for auctions and other fundraising events. LANGUAGE TRANSLATION You are totally fluent in English and Spanish, and willing to lend your skills to translate social media, form emails, and other documents into Spanish. Fluent in a language other than English and Spanish? Other linguists are welcome to inquire! MILK INTAKE You have great attention to detail and like to be on the move. You use those skills to open boxes of frozen milk from our milk donors, weigh the milk, and enter it into our computer system. On top of that, frequent sustained lifting of 40 lbs. or more doesn’t scare you. You figure it saves you a trip to the gym. Another perk of the job: seeing all the variations of color of frozen human milk that we receive from milk donors! MILK PROCESSING The thought of helping pour, pool, bottle or label milk for future recipient babies makes you giddy with excitement. Working alongside friendly team members to get the job done makes it even better. You prefer standing over sitting, and don’t mind sometimes repetitive tasks. In addition, you wouldn’t mind optional and occasional sustained lifting of up to 40 lbs. PUBLIC SPEAKING Have you been touched by receiving donor milk or donating your own milk? If you are a natural speaker, you could make a great ambassador for the milk bank, and encourage others to support our mission. BOARD SERVICE You want to be—or already are—an advocate for human donor milk. In addition, you have a background in nonprofit work, healthcare, human resources, fundraising, marketing, or finance. You want to use that background to help our team make key decisions impacting the milk bank’s future success. Board members serve a two-year term. For more details, check out this video . If you have any questions about Board Service, contact lesley@nwmmb.org . Sign Me Up To Volunteer! Our Volunteer Coordinator, Karen, can be reached at volunteers@nwmmb.org .
- COVID-19 | NWMMB
The safety and wellbeing of our employees, volunteers, donors, and outpatient families is our priority. We will continue to update this page with our latest COVID-19 information, statements, and guidelines. COVID-19 The safety and wellbeing of our employees, volunteers, donors, and outpatient families is our priority. We will continue to update this page with our latest Covid-19 information, statements, and guidelines. Milk donors who receive the Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson's Covid-19 vaccines are still safe and permitted to donate their milk without a deferral period. Covid-19 and Human Milk The safety of the babies we serve is essential! We understand that you may have concerns about your infant’s safety, as well as, your ability to donate milk during the Covid-19 pandemic. If you have symptoms of Covid-19, test positive, or have had a positive known exposure, please call Northwest Mothers Milk Bank to discuss any possible temporary deferral periods and medication use. In most cases, it is safe to donate milk that is expressed during your illness. Some medications used to treat your symptoms may have a short deferral period. We are happy to answer all your questions - 800-204-4444 . Because Northwest Mothers Milk bank provides an important and essential service for the families and infants of the Pacific Northwest, we continue to operate during the period of mandated Covid-19 restrictions. However, we have enhanced the procedures already in place to provide a greater level of protection for our milk recipients, donated milk, milk donors, volunteers, and staff. There is no evidence that Covid-19 is transmitted through human milk. Please visit the CDC website and the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Statement on Breastfeeding and Coronavirus 2019 . However, antibodies to the coronavirus do transfer into breastmilk, which can provide protection to babies. Coronaviruses that are closely related to the strain that causes Covid-19 are readily killed during Holder Pasteurization, which is the process used to pasteurize donor human milk. The CDC recommends that breastfeeding mothers who test positive for Covid-19 continue to breastfeed or pump milk for their child. Milk donors who receive the Pfizer/BioNTech or Moderna Covid-19 vaccines and boosters are safe and permitted to donate their milk without a deferral period. Covid-19 Safety Precautions Precautions are always a part of what we do each day to ensure the safety of our milk, but they are especially important during the Covid-19 pandemic. Donors are thoroughly screened for travel, household health, and risk factors for Covid-19. Donor milk is pasteurized to kill any bacteria and viruses present in the milk. Research has shown that Covid-19 is killed during Holder pasteurization. After pasteurization, milk is tested by a third-party laboratory to ensure it is free of bacteria. NWMMB’s processing rooms are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized multiple times each day. Our team follows guidelines from the FDA and the Human Milk Banking Association of North America to assure optimal practice and safety. Check out our video interview with Fox12 News regarding milk donation options during Covid-19.
- Volunteer Form | NWMMB
Northwest Mothers Milk Bank volunteers gain valuable work experience and in-depth knowledge about milk banking. Apply to Volunteer Donate Milk | Donate Money | Donate Time | Donate After A Loss Please note: We are currently FULL on volunteers. However, any interest forms will be held until the spring of 2025 for consideration for our summer Volunteer Squad, or in the event of a sooner unexpected volunteer opening. Thank you so much! Northwest Mothers Milk Bank currently recommends, but does not require, our volunteers to be current on CDC-recommended vaccinations. To become a volunteer with us, an initial interview, background check, volunteer agreement, and one-hour privacy protection training is required. We welcome all races and genders. Our milk bank is wheelchair and mobility aid accessible, too. Several of our volunteer tasks can be done with a baby or young child accompanying if desired; just let our volunteer coordinator know so that we can pair you with a task that suits your needs. We love seeing baby faces! Our milk bank has a private lactation room with a changing table and a fridge/freezer for anyone who needs to pump or feed a baby. Our private, all-gender restrooms include one restroom with a baby changing station, too. If you are wanting a letter of recommendation letter for volunteering, please keep in mind that we are unable to write a letter of recommendation any sooner than four months after beginning volunteer service. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our volunteer coordinator, Karen, at volunteers@nwmmb.org .
- Privacy Policy | NWMMB
For purposes of this Privacy Policy, references to "we," "our," and "us" mean Northwest Mothers Milk Bank, an Oregon nonprofit. We own and operate the website at https://www.donatemilk.org/ (the "Website"). The Website is intended to provide you with information about, and to facilitate, our safe collection and distribution of human donor milk. We also provide related education, advocacy, and research. Privacy Policy Last Modified: October 27, 2025 1. Introduction For purposes of this Privacy Policy, references to "we," "our," and "us" mean Northwest Mothers Milk Bank, an Oregon nonprofit. We own and operate the website at https://www.donatemilk.org/ (the "Website"). We recently assumed the operations of Mother's Milk Bank of Montana, including its https://www.mothersmilkbankofmt.org/ website, so references to Website in this Privacy Policy also include https://www.mothersmilkbankofmt.org/. The Website is intended to provide you with information about, and to facilitate, our safe collection and distribution of human donor milk. We also provide related education, advocacy, and research. This Privacy Policy explains how and why we collect, use, and disclose personal information collected through the Website and its various webforms, fax, email, and phone, including by voicemail (all these methods are collectively referred to in this Privacy Policy as the "Website". If you do not agree with our policies and practices, your choice is to not use our Website. We reserve the right to change, modify, add, or remove portions of this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will not, however, retroactively change how we collect, use, or disclose personal information without your consent. We will provide notice to you of any material changes through the Website or by other means as we deem appropriate before they take effect. Please check back periodically for any changes we may make to the Privacy Policy. Your continued use of the Website following the posting of changes to this Privacy Policy means that you accept these changes. If you have a disability that limits your ability to access this Privacy Policy, please contact us by email at info@nwmmb.org or by phone at 800-204-4444 to receive information on alternative formats. Put "Privacy Policy" in the subject line of your email. You can also learn more about our efforts to improve accessibility by reviewing our Accessibility Statement . This Privacy Policy is subject to our Terms of Use, so you should also review our Terms of Use before using the Website. Finally, please note that this Privacy Policy applies only to our Website and other websites that display these terms. It does not apply to any website, mobile app, service, or product that does not display or link to this Privacy Policy or that contains its own privacy terms. Nor does this policy apply to information collected through our business relationships (that information is subject to separate agreements), in person, or to the extent information collected falls under our Notice of Privacy Practices (applicable to milk donors and recipients), which may be updated from time to time. 2. Personal Information We Collect About You As noted above, our Website is primarily designed to provide you with information regarding, and to facilitate, our safe collection and distribution of human donor milk. But we also offer a variety of ancillary opportunities, goods, and services. A brief overview of the information, opportunities, goods, and services we offer at the Website follows. You can: Apply to be a donor, and donate milk; Apply to be an outpatient recipient of donor milk; Request milk on behalf of a hospital; Coordinate a milk drop or pick up donor milk at one of our milk-distribution sites; Request a pump rental; Provide testimonials, including photos and text; Apply for employment, volunteer, and internship opportunities; Subscribe to our newsletter; Register for one of our events, or an event co-hosted or sponsored by us; Contact us using one of our webforms, or by phone, fax, or email; Order supplies, including donor cards, informational brochures, and shipping materials; Make a non-milk donation – such as a donation of money, stock, or cryptocurrency; Request use of the community room at our headquarters; Participate in our free, drop-in, informal breastfeeding support groups or classes; and Purchase apparel in our online shop We may collect information from you in connection with our provision of the Website and the above-listed opportunities, goods, and services. This information is generally provided directly by you – such as when you provide us with information through a webform or other interactive features on the Website, or by phone, fax, or email. The personal information we may collect from you includes: First and last name; Date of birth Email address; Phone number; Mailing address; Health information and health-insurance information, including information about your medical history and medication/supplement use, physical condition, lifestyle information, and medical diagnosis and treatment; Financial information; Location (if you consent to location tracking while on the Website); Education and employment history, including references (for job, internship, and volunteer applicants); and Any other information you choose to provide in narrative forms or testimonials. Given the nature of our goods and services, you may also provide some of the above information for a child(ren). We may also collect the IP address (or other unique online identifier) of all Website visitors, device IDs if the Website is accessed from a mobile device, and general information about the equipment you use to access the Website, your operating system and browser type, the times and dates of your interactions with the Website, details of your transactions through and interactions with the Website, and software event data. Finally, we may collect certain information about you if you authorize a third party, such as your physician, to provide it to us, or if you interact with social-media platforms linked from the Website, such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, and X/Twitter, if you "tag" us (@nwmmb), use a hashtag we request, or "Like," "Follow," or otherwise interact with our page or profile on that platform. 3. How We Collect Information We may collect information: Directly from you when you provide it, including (for example) by email, phone, fax, or using various webforms available on our Website, or when you make a monetary donation. From third parties you authorize to provide us with information, such as your physician. From social-media platforms linked from the Website, such as those listed above. Using cookies. Cookies are small files that are placed on your device when you visit the https://www.donatemilk.org/ and https://www.mothersmilkbankofmt.org/ sites. 4. How We Use Personal Information We may use or disclose personal information for one or more of the following business purposes: Providing the information, opportunities, goods, and services you've requested or agreed to receive. Evaluating your application for employment, volunteer, and internship opportunities. Allowing you to make donations of money, stock, or cryptocurrency. Managing and improving the Website and presenting its contents to you. Enabling you to interact with Website features. Carrying out our obligations and enforcing our rights arising from any contracts entered into between us. Informing you about new features of the Website. To contact you with newsletters and marketing or promotional materials related to our goods and services. Serving targeted advertisements to you. For any other purpose disclosed by us when you provide the information. For other purposes with your consent, which you may withdraw at any time. 5. How We Share Information We may share non-personally identifiable information, such as aggregated and deidentified user statistics, with third parties without restriction. We do not share your personal information with third parties for third-party marketing purposes, or for any other purpose other than as described in this Privacy Policy. Notwithstanding the foregoing, we use Google Analytics and Google Ads, both of which are subject to Google's privacy policies – and may involve sharing information collected via Google cookies with Google. You can learn more about Google's privacy policies, including how to control information collected by Google, here: https://policies.google.com/technologies/partner-sites. We may share the information we have collected about you—including personal information—as disclosed at the time you provide such information and in the following circumstances: Third Parties Providing Services on Our Behalf. We use third parties to host the Website and perform administrative, analytics, marketing, and communications services. Services these parties provide include hosting webforms (e.g., Jotform), payment processing (e.g., Give Lively), providing analytics for the https://www.donatemilk.org/ and https://www.mothersmilkbankofmt.org/ sites, serving advertisements to you, cloud storage, and sending our newsletter and marketing communications by email. We may disclose your personal information to these companies so they can carry out these business purposes on our behalf. Except with regard to Google (discussed below), these companies are bound by contractual obligations to keep personal information confidential and use it only for the purposes for which we disclose it to them. Please also be aware that, if you encounter a third party's terms and conditions (e.g., Give Lively for donations and Zazzle for our online store, various social-media platforms when you are using those platforms) when using a feature of the Website, you will be subject to that party's terms and conditions; we therefore encourage you to review any such terms and conditions when encountered. Regarding analytics, we use Google Analytics. Google Analytics functionality involves cookies that collect information about your use of the https://www.donatemilk.org/ and https://www.mothersmilkbankofmt.org/ sites to help create reports and statistics on the performance of those sites. Analytics cookies collect information such as your IP address, type of device, operating system, referring URLs, country information, date and time of page visits, and which pages you visit the most. The information allows us to count our audience size, see the overall patterns of usage on the sites, help us record any difficulties you have with the sites, and show us whether our advertising is effective or not. For more information on Google's privacy practices more generally, please see https://policies.google.com/technologies/partner-sites. You may be able to opt out of the use of these cookies by opting out using our cookie manager tool, adjusting your browser settings, or installing an add-on available here: https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout?hl=en. Regarding targeted advertisements, we use Google Ads to display advertisements across the internet. These ads might appear on Google search results pages, YouTube videos, or on websites that are part of the Google display network. The ads you see may be based on your previous interactions with our https://www.donatemilk.org/ and https://www.mothersmilkbankofmt.org/ sites, your Google search history, or your interests, as inferred by Google. You may be able to opt out of the collection of your information on our sites by Google Ads by using our cookie manager, adjusting your browser settings, or adjusting your personal Google Ads settings by visiting https://myadcenter.google.com/personalizationoff?sasb=true&ref=ad-settings. Third Parties Designated By You. We may share your personal information with third parties where you have instructed us or provided your consent to do so. Promotions. We may offer promotions through the Website. By participating in a promotion, you agree to the terms, conditions, and/or official rules that govern that promotion, including terms related to the disclosure of your personal information. Administrative and Legal Reasons. We may also disclose personal information to enforce or apply our agreement(s) with you or if required to do so by law or in the good-faith belief that such action is necessary to (a) conform to applicable law or comply with legal process served on us; and (b) protect and defend our rights or property, the Website, its users, or the public. Business Transfer. We reserve the right to disclose and transfer all information related to the Website, including, without limitation, all personal information: (y) to a subsequent owner, co-owner, or operator of the Website; or (z) in connection with a merger, consolidation, reorganization, divestiture, restructuring, the sale of substantially all of our equity interests and/or assets, or other corporate change, including, without limitation, during the course of any due diligence process or during any bankruptcy, liquidation, or similar proceeding. 6. Sales of Personal Information We have not sold, and—except in connection with a business transfer (described above)—we will not sell your personal information. 7. Links to Other Websites, Social-Media Platforms, Mobile Applications, and Services We are not responsible for the practices employed by websites, social-media platforms, mobile applications, or services linked to or from the Website, including the information or content contained therein. Our Privacy Policy therefore does not apply to any such third-party websites, social-media platforms, mobile applications, or services: you should review those third parties' policies and practices before using them. 8. Security Personal information is stored in operating environments that are not available to the public. Only those of our employees and agents who need access to personal information to do their jobs are allowed access, each having signed confidentiality agreements or otherwise subject to a duty of confidentiality. While we make reasonable efforts to safeguard personal information once we receive it, no transmission of data over the Internet or any other public network can be guaranteed to be 100% secure. As a result, we cannot ensure or warrant the security of any information you transmit to us or information we transmit to you from the Website, and you assume all related risks. We generally retain personal information only for as long as is necessary for the purposes set out in this Privacy Policy. In certain cases, we may be required to continue to retain personal information to comply with applicable law or in connection with a legal claim. 9. Other Information Business Purpose. We collect and process personal information only when we have a business purpose to do so. Examples of these business purposes include (a) providing you with access to the Website and the information, opportunities, goods, and services provided through the Website; (b) providing you with up-to-date information about us and new features of the Website; (c) engaging third-party providers to deliver certain features of the Website and our goods and services; and (d) complying with record retention laws or other legal obligations. Cross-Border Transfers. The Website is hosted on servers in the United States, and is intended for only people residing within the United States. Any personal information you provide to us will be processed and stored on servers in the United States, the laws of which may be deemed by other countries to have inadequate data protection. If you nevertheless access or use the Website from outside the United States, you consent and continue to consent to the processing and storage of such data in the United States. We use safeguards to protect personal information in accordance with this Privacy Policy. Do Not Track. Some browsers incorporate a "Do Not Track" (DNT) feature that, when turned on, signals to websites and online services that you do not want to be tracked. At this time, the Website does not respond to DNT signals. Children Under 18. The Website is not intended for children under 18, and we do not knowingly collect personal information directly from children under the age of 18. We only collect information regarding children directly from parents or guardians. If you are under 18, please do not use the Website or submit any personal information through it. If you have reason to believe that a child under the age of 18 has directly provided their personal information to us through the Website, please contact us and we will delete that information. 10. Your Choices and Privacy Rights If you choose not to provide personal information, you may be unable to access or use the Website or certain Website features, or to receive certain information, opportunities, goods, or services. Your Privacy Rights. To request access to or correct or delete information submitted through the Website, or to opt out of advertising provided directly by us, you may submit a request – with "Opt-Out"in the subject line – to us by emailing info@nwmmb.org . Be sure to include your name, address, and/or email address so we can identify you (we will only use the information you provide for the purpose of responding to your request). If you only wish to unsubscribe from emails, you can click on the unsubscribe link at the bottom of the email you received. We will not discriminate against you for exercising your privacy rights. Please note, however, that we may be unable to change or delete personal information if we believe it would violate any law or legal requirement or cause the information to be incorrect. In any event, we may ask you to verify your identity before responding to any request. Specific State-Level Consumer Rights. Although our privacy practices generally align with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (“HIPAA”), some information we collect may not be deemed “protected health information” under HIPAA. We may therefore be subject to Washington’s My Health My Data Act (and other similar state laws) and are therefore providing a separate Consumer Health Data Privacy Policy. You may review that Policy to determine if it applies to you and, if so, exercise your rights. Various other states around the United States now have comprehensive privacy laws that apply to people who reside in those states. We are not currently subject to those other laws, however. If that changes, we will update these terms to ensure we reflect any additional rights reserved under applicable laws. Those updates will be made available within this Privacy Policy, in accordance with applicable law. Improper Collection and Misuse of Personal Information. Please report any concerns you have regarding improper collection or misuse of personal information to info@nwmmb.org . 11. Our Contact Information You may contact us regarding matters in this Privacy Policy at: Northwest Mothers Milk Bank 15875 SW 74th Ave Tigard, Oregon 97224 info@nwmmb.org (please be sure to include “Privacy Policy” in the subject line) 800-204-4444 We need your support today! Donate Now
- Milk-To-Go Critical Need
The Milk-To-Go: Plus program is designated for baby’s who have a critical medical need and are being cared for outside of the hospital. NWMMB has served many families who have babies with complex medical conditions. We work to improve access to a safe source of donor milk when an infant needs it the most. Milk for Critical Need Outpatient Milk Orders | Hospital Milk Orders The Milk for Critical Need program is designated for babies who have a serious medical need and are being cared for outside of the hospital. NWMMB has served many families who have infants with complex medical conditions. We work to improve access to a safe source of donor milk when a baby needs it the most. Who is eligible for Milk for Critical Need? Reasons for medically indicated use of donor milk may include, but are not limited to: Digestive disorders (like malabsorption or short-gut syndrome) Heart or kidney disease Post-surgical recovery Immune or metabolic disorders Growth and weight faltering Waiting for an organ transplant Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (babies withdrawing from substances) Severe formula intolerance (must have tried at least three types, including hypoallergenic formulas) Special circumstances (HIV+ birth parent, maternal cancer, or maternal death) There are some critical medical conditions for which pasteurized donor milk may provide therapeutic benefits for your baby. NWMMB can often help by partnering with your baby’s healthcare provider or dietician to help develop a feeding plan which includes donor milk for a short period of time. A healthcare provider’s prescription with documented medical diagnosis, chart notes, and a Statement of Medical Necessity are required to access donor milk for a baby with a critical medical condition. Milk is provided in limited amounts and is based on supply. Please call NWMMB at 800-204-4444. The processing fee for donor milk is $5.00 per ounce. This fee covers all of the important steps to assure the donated milk is safe for your baby. A financial assistance program for families experiencing financial hardship and have a critically ill baby is available in a limited capacity. More information about eligibility can be found here . Milk to Go Prescription Form Upload Rx Form & Notes Call Us to Inquire Today Useful Links Milk to Go CRITICAL Prescription Form Upload Prescription Form and Chart Notes Community Care: Financial Assistance Lactation Support Resources Milk to Go FAQ's Milk To Go Program Practices Notice of Privacy Practice (English) Notice of Privacy Practices (Spanish) Outpatient Milk Orders Looking for additional information about outpatient milk orders? Milk To Go FAQs
- Donate After A Loss | NWMMB
We are so sorry for your loss. We know your heart is grieving, but your body may continue responding to your birth. We are here to discuss the options for your breastmilk. Donate After A Loss Donate Milk | Donate Money | Donate Time | Donate After A Loss We are so sorry for your loss. We know your heart is grieving, but your body may continue responding to your birth. We are here to discuss the options for your breastmilk. Become A Milk Donor Ask Question About Donation Resources for Approved Milk Donors You may want to do everything you can to stop milk production as quickly as possible; you may wish to pump and donate your expressed milk to a milk bank instead. As with all aspects of grieving, there is no right or wrong answer about what to do. Expressing and Donating Your Milk You may have already begun expressing and storing your milk. Milk expressed either by hand or with the help of a pump can be refrigerated, then stored in the freezer until donation. Expressing your milk can occur for as long as you want and may be donated in honor of your baby. Any amount of breastmilk will be accepted for donation. Suppressing Your Milk If you prefer to stop your milk production, there are safe ways to do so. Some helpful tips: Don’t bind your breasts. Binding may cause plugged ducts and infection. Cabbage leaf compresses are an easy home remedy proven to reduce engorgement and dry up milk supply. Don’t be afraid to relieve discomfort by expressing some milk. Express just enough to soften your breasts, but not enough to empty them completely. If you have additional questions about suppressing, expressing, storing, or donating your milk, contact your lactation consultant or Northwest Mothers Milk Bank. Useful Links Breast Massage and Hand Expression Following Perinatal Loss Video , compliments of Breastfeeding Medicine of Northeast Ohio Baby Blues Connection , visit online or via text or phone at 1-800-557-8375 The Dougy Center , visit online or via tollfree phone at 866-775-5683
- Pump Rentals | NWMMB
Northwest Mothers Milk Bank is excited to offer hospital-grade breast pumps rentals for families who reside in the Portland Metro, SW Washington, and Hood River communities. Offering affordable pump rentals was a cornerstone of the Nursing Mothers Counsel of Oregon and we are honored to continue this service. Pump Rentals For Healthcare Providers | For Hospitals | Pump Rentals | Media | In The News | FAQs | Blo g Northwest Mothers Milk Bank is excited to offer hospital-grade breast pump rentals for families who reside in the Portland Metro, SW Washington, and Hood River communities. Offering affordable pump rentals was a cornerstone of the Nursing Mothers Counsel of Oregon and we are honored to continue this service. The number of pumps hosted by NWMMB is limited and stock may not always be available. Please complete the Pump Rental Inquiry form below. Our staff will reach out to you with further information. Below are our cost options for pump rentals, beginning June 1, 2024: $65.00 per month* – Medela Symphony Breast Pump rental $25.00 per week* – Medela Symphony Breast Pump Rental $37.00* – Medela Symphony Double Pumping Kit * If the cost of renting a breast pump presents financial hardship for your family, please let us know. We do not want the rental fees to impact your decision to rent a pump. If you are interested renting a breast pump from Northwest Mothers Milk Bank, please call us at 800-204-4444 . Please call ahead to ensure a pump is available for rental. Pump Rental Inquiry Nursing Mothers Counsel of Oregon (NMC) provided our community with breastfeeding support and education for over 40 years. A volunteer-led organization, NMC centered around making breastfeeding support accessible for all. Many people who shared a passion for breastfeeding, committed their time to support families across the state in reaching their infant feeding goals. In 2022, NMC made the difficult decision to dissolve their nonprofit organization. Northwest Mothers Milk Bank was honored to partner with NMC to ensure the continuation of some of their programs, including breast pump rentals at affordable pricing. Our organization values NMC’s mission to promote, protect, and support breastfeeding. We believe every baby should have access to human milk. Our staff and volunteers will work with you to ensure you are properly, safely and comfortably able to use your rental pump. Useful Links Tips for Cleaning Your Pump – CDC Tips for Cleaning Your Pump – CDC (Spanish) Milk Storage Guidelines – CDC English Milk Storage Guidelines – CDC Spanish Are you interested in learning more about donor human milk? Safety & Quality
- Equity & Inclusion | NWMMB
At Northwest Mothers Milk Bank, our team is critical to our success. We seek energetic and passionate people to join our staff! We provide a unique opportunity to be a part of a growing nonprofit organization that impacts the health of infants in the Pacific Northwest. Equity & Inclusion Welcome to our community. We consider milk donors, donor milk recipients, their families, healthcare providers and institutions, volunteers, and YOU to be part of our community. We all agree that every infant deserves access to human milk for the very best start to life. We are dedicated to serving all infants and families within our community whatever their race, ethnicity, gender, national origin, sexual orientation or identity, age, education, religion, disability or socioeconomic status. The events of 2020 spotlighted existing disparities in maternal healthcare, particularly for people of color. Statistics show that birthing people in BIPOC communities face higher mortality rates and have less access to breast/chestfeeding education than their white neighbors, in no small part due to the injurious history of injustice and poor healthcare outcomes for people of color. Prematurity puts infants at risk for experiencing poor health outcomes. While premature birth can strike anyone, babies born to BIPOC families are 40% more likely to be born too early. We prioritize fragile infants, providing a safe source of human milk when their mother’s own milk may not be 100% available. Lactation and human milk feeding are the cornerstone of human milk banking. This begins with the support, protection, and promotion of breast/chestfeeding. Working as an allied health partner in maternal-child health we have long seen the disparities in opportunities and outcomes along racial lines. Our board and staff are committed to actively examine the inequities that exist within the field of human milk banking. Click on the icons below to learn more about the steps we have taken, and continue to take. Educate Educating ourselves about racism . Examine Examining systems that play a role in perpetuating inequity . Identify Identifying barriers to breastfeeding and human donor milk access. Strengthen Strengthening our community relationships. Advocate Advocating for all babies' right to human milk. Most importantly, we will work more effectively and collaboratively to ensure that donor milk is reaching the babies in our community that need it the most. This work is urgent, and we will always be learning. We will make mistakes and own our responsibility for corrective action. Our efforts will be tireless, and we will not stop. Our journey is on-going. Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter. — Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Outpatient Milk Orders | NWMMB
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 Programs 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 so we can best meet your baby’s need for pasteurized human donor milk. My baby is under 4 weeks old. Up to 40 oz Milk to Go My baby is under 8 weeks old and was born premature (<35 weeks), IUGR, SGA or spent time in the NICU. Up to 100 oz Milk to Go Plus My baby has a critical medical need. Volume based on need and availability. Milk for Critical Need Looking for additional information about outpatient milk orders? Milk to Go FAQs
- Tour The Milk Bank | NWMMB
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
- Track Activity | 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.
- Accessibility Statement | NWMMB
Northwest Mothers Milk Bank is committed to digital accessibility and meeting the standards of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 AA to ensure our website is accessible to everyone. Our team is continuously working to improve the user experience for all visitors. If you encounter any accessibility barriers while using our site, please contact us. Website Accessibility Statement Effective Date: October 27, 2025 1. Introduction This Website Accessibility Statement ("Statement";) sets forth Northwest Mothers Milk Bank's ("we,""us,"or "our") commitment to make its https://www.donatemilk.org/ (the "Website") more accessible. Accessibility standards and technology evolve, and we are continually working to improve our users' experience, so we may update this Statement from time to time. 2. Website Accessibility Information We have enabled Website features to align with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines ("WCAG"), currently WCAG 2.1, including adopting the following accessibility features: a. Focus indicators for keyboard users that provide visual cues; b. Our Document Object Model ("DOM" order is defined to help screen readers and keyboard users; and c. Browser zoom is enabled, allowing users to increase default text and image size. In addition, we use safeguards to help ensure accessibility features are maintained across the Website and our personnel who access and maintain the Website adhere to our accessibility standards. To ensure maximum functionality of the Website's accessibility features, we recommend using one of the following web browsers: Chrome (Windows OS and Android) Firefox (Windows OS and Android) Safari (OSx and IOS) 3. Feedback and Assistance We welcome your feedback on the accessibility of our Website. Please contact us if you encounter accessibility barriers: Northwest Mothers Milk Bank 15875 SW 74th Ave Tigard, Oregon 97224 info@nwmmb.org (please be sure to include “Accessibility” in the subject line) We need your support today! Donate Now
- Donor Advised Funds | NWMMB
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
- Staff & Board | NWMMB
Northwest Mothers Milk Bank is a nonprofit donor milk bank established in 2008. Our mission is to improve the health and survival of the Pacific Northwest’s most vulnerable infants. We believe that every baby deserves access to human milk. We carry out our mission through the safe collection and dis Staff & Board Our Mission | Staff & Board | Partners | Little Love Stories | Careers | Contact Us Meet The Staff Our team believes every baby deserves the best possible start in life! Collectively, they share a love for animals (with dogs slightly edging out a preference for cats). 70% of our staff picked teleportation as their superpower of choice. When asked about aliens arriving on earth and offering rides, 70% would run the other way, leaving the other 30% ready and waiting with their bags packed. Click on the baby photos below to learn more about our amazing team. Lesley BSN, IBCLC Executive Director Brynn Development & Community Outreach Manager Joanne BSN, IBCLC Clinical Outreach Director Charissa IBCLC Donor Engagement Associate Geoff Milk Distribution Manager Arielle Milk Intake Coordinator Jonathan Lead Milk Processing Technician Nick Operations Manager Sonia RD, LD, IBCLC Donor Engagement Manager Teresa IBCLC Donor Engagement Associate Madeline Lead Milk Distribution Assistant Audri Sanitation Technician Lucy IBCLC Donor Engagement Associate Finley Milk Processing Technician Jack Regional Distribution Lead Beth Milk Distribution Assistant Amanda Client Services Associate Michal Social Media Coordinator Jess Milk Processing Technician Sarah IBCLC, OT Donor Engagement & Community Care Manager Danica Milk Distribution Assistant Jessica Milk Distribution Assistant Coen Milk Bank Intern Working at NWMMB is uplifting and inspiring, giving you purpose to each workday. The team comes together for the common goal and passion of helping these vulnerable, precious lives. This place of work is truly something special; it fosters personal and team growth, and most importantly, everyone is each other’s biggest cheerleader. — Rachel Dunn, RN and NWMMB employee Meet The Board Our board members are dedicated volunteers. They bring a variety of experience to guide our organization towards a sustainable future and ensure we have adequate resources to advance our mission. Our staff and board have opportunities to work together on projects and committees. Read about one of our most recent collaborations here . Cynthia Jackson RN, IBCLC, MPH Board Chair Retired NICU Staff, Providence Health Past President, Oregon-Washington Lactation Association Stefanie Rogers MD Medical Director Neonatologist, Northwest Newborn Specialists Courtney Peterson DNP, FNP-C Nurse Practitioner Providence Mother and Baby Clinics, Milk Donor Sarah Skog MD, IBCLC OB Family Doctor, Medical Student Educator, Oregon Health & Science University Andrea Trulove Communications Manager Hennebery Eddy Architects Milk Donor Donor Milk Recipient Anna Rillahan, RYT-500, RPYT Head of Sales & Marketing, Talkoot Yoga Instructor, Birth Doula, Milk Donor Elizabeth Still RD, IBCLC WIC Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Coordinator Jessi Hagert CPA Board Treasurer Accounting Director, NIKE Milk Donor Ruth Osborne MBA Business Owner USMC Veteran Caitlin Low MSN, RN, C-MNN, OB, ONQS, IBCLC Board Secretary Case Manager Pediatric and Adolescent Eating Disorders Kaiser Permanente Meet The Medical Advisory Council Comprised of leading healthcare professionals from across the Pacific Northwest, the members of the Medical Advisory Council volunteer their expert guidance and support to NWMMB board and executive staff when needed. Nan Dahlquist MD, FAAP, FABM, IBCLC Breastfeeding Medicine Nicole Marshall MD, MCR, IBCLC, FACOG Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Lactation Research Annette Magner BSC, BSN, RN, IBCLC Lactation Consultant, OHSU Krystle Perez MD, MPH Neonatology, University of Washington Tricia Hughes RN, BSN Clinical Director and Founder Maddie’s Place, Spokane, W A Newbo rns/Infants with Substance Exposure Sue Gadau RD, CD Clinical Nutrition- NICU, Overlake Medical Center Kaleena Trimpe ARNP Family Nurse Practitioner Nurture Lactation, Spokane, WA Doug Lincoln MD, MPH Pediatrics Melissa Stawarz RD, CSPCC, LD, CNSC Dietitian for NICU and Newborn Services, Providence St Vincent Medical Center Kathy Pheister BSN, RN, IBCLC NICU, Providence St Vincent Medical Center Join Our Team! View Open Positions
- Blog | NWMMB
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
- Boob Cruise 8:00 PM | NWMMB
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
- Shop
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!"
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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.”
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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”
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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
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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?”
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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."
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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."
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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!"
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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”
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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












