02 Aug UPMC Altoona becomes donor depot for breast milk
Altoona Mirror (August 2, 2023) – Premature babies or those whose mothers cannot fully supply their needs now have a local source for nourishment.
UPMC Altoona recently became the first hospital in the UPMC system and the fifth in Pennsylvania to become a “donation depot” for mother’s milk.
It’s a status that will make it easier for eligible local mothers to provide their surplus milk for babies in need.
The local hospital received the designation from the Mid-Atlantic Mothers’ Milk Bank, after that organization approached the hospital in December, following the hospital’s accreditation for the state’s Keystone 10 breastfeeding program.
Breastfeeding protects babies and mothers from various illnesses, said UPMC lactation consultant Alison Keating at a news conference Tuesday to mark the start of Breastfeeding Awareness Month.
Breast milk donated to the bank goes to some babies, including those with ailments that prevent them from thriving on formula or whose mothers are unable to provide enough milk.
The local depot received its first donation during the ceremony from UPMC labor and delivery nurse Danielle Tinsley, who breastfeeds her 11-month-old son, Theo.
“I have an abundant supply at home, and I didn’t want it to go to waste,” Tinsley said. “I’m proud of myself to be able to feed my own child and also be able to support other babies.”