Donating Breast Milk

My infant daughter was recently diagnosed with a dairy protein allergy. She has been breast-fed from day one and now will not take formula. This means that my wife’s diet has to be completely dairy free.

Our problem is that before my daughter was diagnosed, my wife had already begun pumping and storing gallons of breast milk. This milk was before my wife’s new diet, so we can no longer use it.

We would really hate to throw it all away. I have heard of ‘milk banks’ and also private donations (however it sounds like there are a lot of freaks out there who want the milk for their own consumption - we’re not sure how we feel about that yet). Does anyone have experience donating or at least know of a good way to do it?

Thanks in advance for your help.

CaptainK

Get a hold of the neonatal units of local hospitals. I know breastmilk is really in demand for preemies and other infants with special needs; I read a lot about how they need donated breastmilk. How wonderful of you to donate! Let us know how it goes.

Also look for a local chapter of the La Leche League.