Shakelford Family

My journey as a mother began with heartbreaking news: my first daughter, Mila, had a lethal form of dwarfism and passed away just two days after birth. While the pain lingers, donating my breast milk has given me strength, turning my grief into a force for good. As part of the Mothers’ Milk Bank, I see the profound impact of collective compassion, providing vulnerable infants with the best chance for a healthy future. I’m proud to contribute to this important cause and express my heartfelt gratitude for the impactful work you do. Thank you for bringing hope and healing to families in need.”
– V. Shakelford

Stories of Impact

Rachel Land

A note from our Medical Director

“Since Mothers’ Milk Bank first opened its doors nearly fifty years ago, serving at-risk babies and families has been at the heart of what we do. As a neonatologist at one of the nation’s top-ranked hospitals, I am deeply connected to the organization’s mission, impact, research, and to continuing this lifesaving work with the Mothers’ Milk Bank team!”

R. Jones

Donating after loss

“Because of our son Avi, my body is able to give the life-sustaining gift of breastmilk to other babies who desperately need it. This gift not only helps me in my grieving process, it infuses deeper meaning into the reality that he existed. His life is now giving life to other children. We are saving lives for Avi, and because of Avi. Thank you, Mother’s Milk Bank!”
-R. Jones

S. Kannan

The privilege to share the gift of milk

“As the first in my family to experience the precious journey of breastfeeding, I feel incredibly fortunate. Despite the inevitable challenges, every moment has been a cherished part of this remarkable experience. An opportunity that fills my heart with immense joy and gratitude.” 

S. Kannan

What’s New

Mothers’ Milk Bank Announces Critical Need for Donor Milk

Mothers’ Milk Bank Announces Critical Need for Donor Milk

For media inquiries, contact: Liza Batallones, Landis Communications E: liza@landispr.com | D: (415) 766-0846 ▼ DOWNLOAD PRESS RELEASENation’s oldest milk bank, based in San Jose, invites lactating mothers to join its network of milk donors to support premature and...

Spring Human Milk Meet-Ups and Donor Milk Drive

Spring Human Milk Meet-Ups and Donor Milk Drive

In response to the significant demand for human donor milk and the urgent need to support our communities' most vulnerable members, Mothers’ Milk Bank is leading a comprehensive initiative to recruit new milk donors. This initiative includes "Milk Meet-Ups," providing...

Breast Milk Donation Drive: Santa Cruz Breastfeeding Coalition

Breast Milk Donation Drive: Santa Cruz Breastfeeding Coalition

In honor of Mothers’ Day, you are invited to a Breast Milk Donation Drive at The Circle Family Center in Aptos, California on May 4, 2022 from 10:00am to 12:00pm. Bring your frozen milk or join us to learn more about how to become a milk donor! There will be crafting...