The Christchurch Hospital Human Milk Bank is issuing an urgent appeal for breast milk donations, as demand remains high for premature and seriously ill babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Donated breast milk is often a vital lifeline for infants whose mothers are unable to provide their own milk. It plays a crucial role in supporting the health and development of vulnerable newborns, especially those born prematurely or facing medical complications.

When a baby’s own parent is unable to supply milk, the Human Milk Bank steps in by offering screened and pasteurised donor milk from healthy, breastfeeding mothers with a surplus supply.

“We are incredibly grateful to those who responded to our previous call for donations,” said a spokesperson for the milk bank. “Your kindness has already made a tremendous difference. But the need continues, and we are urging more breastfeeding mothers in Canterbury to consider donating.”

The Human Milk Bank emphasises that breast milk is not just nourishment—it’s medicine for many of these babies, boosting immunity, aiding growth, and significantly improving outcomes in NICU care.

If you are a breastfeeding parent in the Canterbury region and have milk to spare, or if you know someone who might be willing to help, please reach out to the Christchurch Hospital Human Milk Bank.

For more information or to register your interest in becoming a donor, please contact the milk bank directly here: [email protected] / Phone: (03) 364 4344