SOLANO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - The Solano County Department of Health and Social Services, Public Health Division joins the California Department of Public Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, United States Breastfeeding Committee and World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action in celebrating National Breastfeeding Month in August.  

Throughout August, communities nationwide host activities and events to raise awareness and provide support to breastfeeding families. Each week of National Breastfeeding Month highlights a different topic: Aug. 1 to 7 is Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems; Aug. 8 to 14 is Indigenous Milk Medicine Week; Aug. 15 to 21 is Native Hawaiian, Asian American and Pacific Islander Week; and August 25 to 31 is Black Breastfeeding Week.  

In Solano County, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) provides year-round breastfeeding support through individualized counseling, breastfeeding support groups and access to breast pumps.

Alongside these efforts, the Solano County Breastfeeding Coalition held its eighth annual National Breastfeeding Month Celebration and Resource Fair earlier this month and is now leading a month-long milk drive. Interested donors can complete a brief screening, receive free shipping supplies and mail in their milk or drop it off at the Solano County Collection Center anytime throughout August.  

“When families have access to consistent encouragement, shared experiences and trusted resources, breastfeeding success becomes a shared community achievement,” said Andrea Cabezas, Regional Breastfeeding Liaison. “Celebrating National Breastfeeding Month helps shine a light on policies, programs and community networks that empower families to breastfeed successfully. Some families are unaware that they can donate extra breast milk, and we hope to inspire more families to participate and ensure this vital resource is available for babies who need it most.” 

Those interested in supporting local families are encouraged to learn more about milk donation.

“When my daughter faced complications at birth, donor breast milk played a vital role in her recovery. It’s more than just nutrition: breast milk delivers essential antibodies and immune support that protect vulnerable babies and help them heal when it matters most,” said Tatiana Martin, Women, Infants and Children Breastfeeding Peer Counselor. “This is why we’re encouraging parents to consider becoming milk donors. Your gift could be lifesaving.” 

For more details on breastfeeding support through Women, Infants and Children or the milk drive, contact Andrea Cabezas at 707-784-8329 or [email protected].