Mothers' Milk Bank California Celebrates 50th Anniversary and Launches Cares Program

Mothers' Milk Bank California (MMB California), the oldest continuously operating independent nonprofit milk bank in the United States, marks a significant milestone of 50 years of service to infants and families nationwide. In conjunction with this celebration, the organization has launched the MMB California Cares Program, emphasizing its dedication to quality, efficiency, equity, and education.

Since its inception in 1974, MMB California has distributed 16 million ounces of donor human milk to some of the nation’s most vulnerable babies, ensuring essential nutrition and life-saving nourishment. The organization has supported nearly 25,000 milk donors, collaborating with a growing number of hospitals to provide safe human milk to the tiniest patients.

The MMB California Cares Program aims to fortify the Milk Donor Community by focusing on four key areas: Quality Assurance and Compliance, Efficiency and Excellence, Equity and Access Initiatives, and Education and Outreach Campaigns. These initiatives reflect the organization’s ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards, streamlining operations, increasing accessibility, and raising awareness about the benefits of donor human milk.

Jennifer Benito-Kowalski, Chief Executive Officer of MMB California, commented, “As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we reflect on the incredible journey of saving lives and supporting families. Our new MMB California Cares Program is a testament to our commitment to quality, efficiency, equity, and education. We are excited to continue our mission and expand our reach to ensure that every baby in need has access to safe donor milk.”

Additionally, MMB California has unveiled a redesigned website featuring enhanced navigation and user-friendly interfaces to better serve donors, healthcare providers, and families seeking support. This digital update aligns with the organization's mission to provide comprehensive resources and foster community among donors and recipients.

The impact of MMB California’s work over the past 50 years has been profound, setting a model for nonprofit milk banks across the United States and Mexico. As a founding member of the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA), MMB California has played a pivotal role in establishing industry standards, advancing neonatal care, and improving the lives of countless families.

With the introduction of the MMB California Cares Program, the organization aims to continue its legacy of service and innovation, ensuring that safe donor milk remains accessible to all families in need.