Resource Guide for families, providers and support people
As Black Breastfeeding Week draws to a close, we’re highlighting some essential support resources available to support Black breastfeeding families. Whether you're a new mom, a healthcare provider, a family member, or a community advocate, these organizations offer the guidance, community, and advocacy needed to help Black parents succeed in their breastfeeding journeys. This week is a reminder of the work that happens all year round to ensure that we close the gap on breastfeeding disparities and promote health equity.
Black Mothers’ Breastfeeding Association (BMBFA)
BMBFA offers virtual support groups, community-based doula programs, and educational resources tailored specifically to the needs of Black mothers. Their mission is to reduce racial disparities in breastfeeding rates by providing culturally appropriate support and advocacy.
Key Offerings:
Website: https://blackmothersbreastfeeding.org/
The Melanated Mammary Atlas
The Melanated Mammary Atlas® is a mobile-friendly web application that features a searchable directory of images of various breast-related conditions on brown skin. The tool allows for viewing the single largest collection of such images for diagnostics, assessment, and education purposes.
Key Features:
Website: https://www.mmatlas.com/
The Irth App
The Irth app is a tool for addressing and combating racism in maternal and infant healthcare. Designed specifically for Black and Brown communities, the Irth app empowers users to share and read reviews of doctors, hospitals, and birthing experiences, ensuring that families have the information they need to make safer, more informed healthcare choices.
Key Features:
Website: https://irthapp.com/
CinnaMoms
An LA-based organization offering educational materials, events, and opportunities to connect with other breastfeeding families.
Key Offerings:
Website: https://www.cinnamoms.org/
National Association of Professional and Peer Lactation Supporters of Color (NAPPLSC)
NAPPLSC is dedicated to promoting equity in lactation support. This organization provides valuable training, resources, and advocacy aimed at creating culturally relevant lactation education and support. NAPPLSC’s focus on professional and peer lactation professionals of color ensures that Black mothers receive the care and encouragement they need from people who look like them.
Key Offerings:
Website: https://www.facebook.com/NAPPLSC?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere (ROSE)
ROSE works tirelessly to address breastfeeding disparities and promote breastfeeding in communities of color. ROSE offers training programs for healthcare providers, peer counseling, and community engagement initiatives designed to support Black mothers and their families.
Key Offerings:
Website: https://www.breastfeedingrose.org/
Black Breastfeeding Week
Black Breastfeeding Week, celebrated annually during the last week of August, is a powerful movement that addresses the unique cultural challenges and health disparities faced by Black families. The website provides information on events, advocacy efforts, and resources to support Black breastfeeding families.
Key Offerings:
Website: http://blackbreastfeedingweek.org/
Mocha Milk
Mocha Milk is dedicated to increasing breastfeeding rates among Black women through education, advocacy, and support. Their resources are designed to empower Black mothers, helping them overcome challenges and succeed in their breastfeeding goals.
Key Offerings:
Website: https://www.mochamilk.org/
Chocolate Milk Café
Chocolate Milk Café is a network of breastfeeding support groups specifically for Black women. These cafés offer culturally competent peer support, creating a nurturing environment where Black mothers can feel understood and supported in their breastfeeding journeys.
Key Offerings:
Website: https://www.chocolatemilkcafe.com
In addition to these resources it is vital to have pregnancy and postpartum care providers who are trained to support breastfeeding. They can help with initiating or troubleshooting the breastfeeding relationship. Remember that breastfeeding education can start during pregnancy or even before in order to plan resources and gather supplies. Ask your care provider about breastfeeding support and plan to see a lactation professional at least once during postpartum and ideally once during pregnancy. We believe breastfeeding should be available to all who wish to do it and know that this can only be possible with many supports in place, we hope that this guide helps to build community and confidence for Black breastfeeding families.
