CareSource, a nationally recognized nonprofit health plan, announced on Monday a $4,500 donation to The Milk Bank to sponsor 1,000 ounces of human milk as part of the organization’s Give an Ounce campaign. The gift is part of CareSource’s larger effort to increase access to adequate infant nutrition while the country is experiencing an unprecedented shortage of infant formula.
“CareSource recognizes the importance of safe, affordable and accessible nutrition for infants and members and wants to help,” said Dr. Cameual Wright, MD, VP, market chief medical officer of CareSource Indiana. “Leveraging our existing partnership with The Milk Bank can support families navigating this crisis.”
The Milk Bank can provide up to 40 ounces of donor milk without a prescription. Requests for donor milk have increased 89 percent since May 1 and requests for financial assistance to obtain donor milk have increased 200 percent.
“The Milk Bank’s long-term strategy in addressing this unprecedented shortage is to continue to advance breastfeeding as a primary pillar of infant health,” said Sarah Long, clinical director of The Milk Bank. “However, we must also provide immediate relief for struggling families who may need support in accessing a safe feeding option for their infants. The continued support CareSource has provided will make more milk available to mothers and families in critical need.”
To discuss your family’s needs, call The Milk Bank at (317) 536-1670 or complete the application online at themilkbank.org/recipient-app.
About The Milk Bank
The Milk Bank is a non-profit tissue bank dispensing more than 400,000 ounces of pasteurized donor human milk to hospitals and families throughout the region every year. The Milk Bank improves health outcomes for premature and ill infants, foster better health for children and decreases health care expenditures. The Milk Bank follows the strictest safety standards informed by the CDC and FDA and is a proud member of the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA). Visit themilkbank.org to learn more.