Whangarei mum Ashlee Robinson (left), with Whangarei Rotary Club South past president and fundraising guru Jenni Moore, was one of the first donors to the breast milk bank when it opened in July.
Whangarei mum Ashlee Robinson (left), with Whangarei Rotary Club South past president and fundraising guru Jenni Moore, was one of the first donors to the breast milk bank when it opened in July.
A new breast milk bank in Northland has been so successful, a freezer had to be bought to help store donated milk.
He Piripono Waiū Milk Bank opened in July at Whangārei Hospital, to collect, treat and store breast milk donated by healthy mums who have excess.
Known as “liquidgold”, the donated breast milk is used to help Northland’s premature and unwell babies, including those in the hospital’s neonatal unit.
Since opening in July, the milk bank has helped nourish 38 babies, with 44 litres of breast milk pasteurised thanks to donations from 13 mothers.
“A fundraising campaign launched in 2023 saw Rotary Whangārei South and City clubs, Whangārei Lions, and passionate community members raise an impressive $32,900, enabling the purchase of a vital pasteuriser.
Lactation consultant Janine Parsons (left) and maternity quality and safety leader Lou Rowden check the breast milk to be stored in the new freezer for when needed by vulnerable babies.
“Their commitment reflects the deep care Northlanders have for whānau and pēpi [babies].”
Northland joins a growing national network of breast milk banks, including Christchurch, Wellington, Nelson and Blenheim.
He Piripono Waiū Milk Bank is a testament to aroha, partnership, and the power of community with every donation, every dollar raised and every baby helped a reminder of what the community can achieve together, Bree said.
New mums can talk with their midwife or lactation consultant to find out more about He Piripono Waiū Milk Bank.
Mums with infants up to 2 years who want to donate will need to complete a questionnaire and blood test to ensure they are healthy. Contact 021-679-837 or search “He Piripono Waiū Milk Bank” online for more details.
Denise Piper is a news reporter for the Northern Advocate, focusing on health and business. She has more than 20 years in journalism and is passionate about covering stories that make a difference.
