OhioHealth Mothers’ Milk Bank Celebrates 20 Years of Nourishing Babies and Supporting Families

For two decades, the OhioHealth Mothers’ Milk Bank has provided life-saving donor breast milk to infants in need, helping the most vulnerable babies get a healthy start in life. This celebration of 20 years honors the generous milk donors, the families and babies who have benefited, and the partnership between the Milk Bank and hospitals or centers across the state who support the mission.

The OhioHealth Mothers’ Milk Bank, under the guidelines of the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA), is one of just 31 milk banks in North America - 28 in the United States and three in Canada.

“This 20-year milestone is a testament to the generosity and care of our entire community and beyond,” Chris Smith, OhioHealth Mothers’ Milk Bank clinical nurse, said. “From the donors who give so selflessly, to the families who place their trust in us, and the team whose dedication makes it all possible - every contribution matters and touches lives in countless ways.”

Over the past years, the Milk Bank has also expanded its support for mothers and families, providing education and guidance on breastfeeding and infant nutrition.

“Our mission goes far beyond providing milk,” Michaela Burns, OhioHealth manager of business operations at OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, said. “We are here to nurture mothers, empower families, and make a lasting impacting on our community. This is something we could never do without our donors and partners.” 

On Friday, Nov. 14, the Milk Bank hosted an anniversary celebration event to honor the donors, recipient families, and the compassionate Milk Bank team that ensures safe, pasteurized human milk reaches babies when they need it most.