Stewart Memorial Community Hospital (SMCH) in Lake City has recently become a milk collection depot for the Mother’s Milk Bank of Iowa. The new equipment allows them to accept and store donated breast milk, which is distributed to infants in need across the country. The Mother’s Milk Bank of Iowa aims to improve the health of infants by collecting, storing, and distributing human milk. In 2022, milk was dispensed to 48 hospitals in 10 states. Donor human milk is used for hospitalized premature infants, infants born with immunological defects, adopted infants, mothers who require a brief cessation of breastfeeding due to illness, and more. Milk donors must undergo a screening process before approval, including a verbal and written questionnaire, allowing healthcare providers to be contacted, and agreeing to a blood test. Once approved, donors must pump and store milk according to the Milk Bank’s standards. SMCH OB Director Susan Stevens, RN, says, “We are very excited to become a breast milk depot for the Mother’s Milk Bank of Iowa. There is a constant need for breast milk, so we’re thrilled to take part and help babies in need by bringing this resource to Lake City.” For more information about screening requirements, storage, delivery instructions, or to order donor breast milk, follow the link included below.
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www.uihc.org/childrens/information-milk-donors
