March 20, 2025
St. Peter's Health is proud to announce its new status as the first human breast milk donation collection site in Montana, achieved through a longstanding partnership with Northwest Mothers Milk Bank (NWMMB) formerly Mother’s Milk Bank of Montana. This initiative, launched in 2024, marks a significant milestone for St. Peter’s in enhancing infant nutrition and supporting infants and families of the greater Helena area who need it most. By partnering with Northwest Mothers Milk Bank, St. Peter's Infant Nutrition team on the Women’s and Children’s Unit ensures that donated breast milk is safely collected, processed, pasteurized and used specifically for infants who are born premature, are in the special care nursery at the Regional Medical Center, whose mothers are unable to breastfeed due to surgery or illness, and/or who are learning to breastfeed.
According to St. Peter’s Certified Registered Nurse and Internationally Board-Certified Lactation Consultant Kathy Swanson, this collaboration underscores the hospital’s Labor and Delivery care team’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of their community's youngest and most vulnerable members. "As a lactation nurse, I see firsthand the incredible benefits that donor breast milk provides to infants, especially those who are premature or have medical conditions," said Swanson. "Our team cherishes its work to ensure everyone’s birth experience and first days as a mother include access to the highest quality of care in a safe, supportive environment. This offering extends that commitment.”
As a Baby Friendly designated organization, St. Peter's is committed to providing the highest standards of care for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. This prestigious designation, earned through rigorous evaluation, highlights their dedication to helping mothers achieve their infant-feeding goals and promoting optimal infant nutrition.
Helena resident and mother of one, Kendra Hull, is one of the first women to donate breast milk to the new program. Her reason for giving is twofold. “I almost had to deliver my son early and when I met with the physician, they shared that premature babies may experience issues with nursing and how donor breast milk could be an option,” says Hull. “I’m grateful to say that we did not end up having to deliver early, but now in my pumping journey, I produce a good supply – I figure there are so many people who need it so I am happy to donate what I can knowing I could have needed that support once upon a time.”
Human milk is widely recognized for its unparalleled benefits in promoting infant health, particularly for premature and medically fragile infants. Donor milk provides critical nutrients and immune protection, significantly improving health outcomes for these vulnerable populations.
This initiative is made possible through the collaborative efforts of several esteemed partners, including the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA), Northwest Mothers Milk Bank, Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Helena Early Childhood Collaborative, and Headwaters Foundation. Their support and expertise have been instrumental in ensuring the success and sustainability of the Donor Breast Milk Program.
St. Peter's is hosting a “kick-off” event on Friday, March 21 at 11:00am in the St. Peter’s Health Education Center for local providers, clinics, partners, and other healthcare professionals in the area to celebrate this new offering. The event is aimed at providing an opportunity to learn more about their breast milk donation program and other family support services offered at St. Peter’s. Women interested in learning more about becoming a breast milk donor are also encouraged to attend. “Attendees will gain valuable insights into how we support maternal and infant health and how they can collaborate with us to enhance care for families in our community,” said Swanson.
In addition to their Donor Breast Milk Program, St. Peter's offers a comprehensive range of resources, education, and services for parents, mothers, and babies. Expecting mothers can book an appointment with the St. Peter’s Infant Nutrition team before or after discharge to assist in feeding success. Their Prepared Parenting classes provide expectant parents with essential knowledge and skills for childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care. The Taking Care of You Parental Support Program offers ongoing support and resources to help parents navigate the challenges of raising a family.
St. Peter's invites lactating mothers who have surplus milk to consider donating. Every donation can make a profound difference in the lives of infants in our community. For more information on how to donate, please visit our Donor Breast Milk Program page at sphealth.org/DonorMilk.