[Fort Worth, TX 2/2/24] - The Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) proudly announces that its 33 member milk banks have collectively dispensed nearly 10 million ounces of life-saving donor human milk to hospitals across North America. Serving 1500 hospitals, this milestone underscores the critical role of donor milk in providing vital nourishment to premature and medically fragile infants.
In 2023, HMBANA milk banks distributed a total of 9,949,042 ounces of donor human milk, highlighting the unwavering commitment of our network to meet the increasing demand for safe donor milk. These ounces represent not just a statistic, but countless moments of hope, resilience, and healing for babies and families facing the most challenging circumstances.
"The impact of donor human milk cannot be overstated. It provides essential nutrients, antibodies, and immune factors that are crucial for the health and development of premature and medically fragile infants," said Lindsay Groff, Executive Director of HMBANA. "Every ounce of donated milk contributes to the well-being and survival of these vulnerable infants, giving them a fighting chance at a healthy start in life."
Despite the invaluable contributions of HMBANA member milk banks, the need for donor human milk continues to grow. Premature birth rates are on the rise, and more infants are born with complex medical conditions requiring specialized care. To ensure that every infant in need has access to donor human milk, HMBANA urges individuals to consider becoming milk donors.
"Our milk banks rely on the generosity of donors to continue our life-saving mission. By donating milk, individuals have the power to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable infants and their families," emphasized Groff.
For individuals interested in becoming milk donors or learning more about the vital work of HMBANA and its member milk banks, please visit www.hmbana.org.
About HMBANA:
The Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting, protecting, and supporting donor milk banking. HMBANA member milk banks adhere to the strictest safety and quality standards, ensuring that donor milk is safe and effective for the infants who rely on it.
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact info@hmbana.org.