In honor of Black Breastfeeding Week, the Kentucky Blood Center is partnering with The Milk Bank to provide breast milk for premature babies in the state. Every ounce of donated milk is equivalent to three feedings for infants in need. Mandy Brajuha, vice president of executive relations for the Kentucky Blood Center, shared her own struggles with breastfeeding and the importance of this partnership.
The Kentucky Blood Center has established four drop-off locations in Lexington and Louisville where people can donate breast milk. The Milk Bank in Indianapolis, one of 27 breast milk banks in North America, processes and distributes the donated milk to neonatal intensive care units and outpatient families in Indiana, Kentucky, and the St. Louis area. Donors must meet certain requirements before contributing.
With one in nine babies born preterm in Kentucky and Black infants showing the highest rate, the need for breast milk donations is critical. Programs like The Milk Bank provide essential nutrients and vitamins to infants who may face obstacles in obtaining breast milk.
To learn more about how to donate or receive milk, visit the Kentucky Blood Center’s website or The Milk Bank. This partnership is helping to ensure that babies in need receive the nourishment they require for healthy growth and development.
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