Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) stands as a harrowing challenge in the realm of infant health, claiming the lives of thousands of babies annually.
When newborns enter the world, their need for nourishment is paramount.
In instances where a parent's breastmilk isn't available or sufficient, pasteurized donor human milk emerges as the next best option to avert NEC and bolster the survival chances of these vulnerable infants.
In light of this pressing need, the UC Health Milk Bank was established. Anchored by a commitment to infant health and well-being, this initiative has become a beacon of hope for families grappling with the specter of NEC. At its core lies a simple yet profound mission: to provide infants with the sustenance they require for a healthy start to life.
Our journey with the UC Health Milk Bank began in 2020 and 2022 when our office allocated $160,000 to the University of California, San Diego. This funding was instrumental in laying the foundation for a milk fund to support underserved or medically fragile babies. The initial grant facilitated the acquisition of crucial equipment, including cold storage units, milk processing machines, a milk lab workstation, IT infrastructure, and the innovative MotherMilk mobile application. These resources played a pivotal role in bolstering the capabilities of the San Diego Mother's Milk Bank (SDMMB), enabling it to better serve the needs of infants in our community.
Additionally, investments were made to augment milk lab production capabilities by acquiring advanced equipment and expanding staff.
Yet, despite these strides, the need for donor milk persists. Every donation, no matter how small, has the potential to make a profound difference in the life of an infant. If you're inspired to join us in this cause, we invite you to consider becoming a donor. Your contribution can serve as a lifeline for infants battling NEC, allowing them to thrive and flourish.
To donate and learn more about how you can make a difference, please visit UC Health Milk Bank Donation Portal.
The UC Health Milk Bank stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in safeguarding the health and well-being of our most vulnerable members. Together, let us continue to nourish the hopes and dreams of infants in need, one donation at a time.