AUSTIN, Texas — Austin Public Health (APH) is celebrating a milestone as its Mom’s Place Lactation Center marks 30 years of service to the community. APH is using this occasion to remind families in Austin and Travis County of the support available to them.
“Every year in August, lactation is celebrated around the globe for the lifelong health and wellness benefits it provides to the mother and infant,” said Donna Sundstrom, Assistant Director of Community Services at APH. “Locally, most families in our community are choosing to breast/chest-feed their newborns, and Mom’s Place Lactation Support Center is the perfect place to help them achieve their goals. It is incredible to think of the sheer number of families educated, supported, and encouraged by Mom’s Place over the past 30 years!”
Mom's Place opened in 1994 to support moms and families of all backgrounds with their lactation and breastfeeding journeys. Staff supported at least 2,500 moms and families in 2023 and over 1,000 so far in 2024, while the number continues to rise.
The center is affiliated with APH’s WIC Program and provides breastfeeding support to the community, including those with no insurance or minimal benefits. Mom’s Place also hosts many breastfeeding trainings and presentations for students, interns, and others in the greater healthcare community.
“Mom’s Place has touched countless lives in our community, and we look forward to continuing this very important work,” said WIC Breastfeeding Coordinator Angela Fritsch. “I want to encourage everyone to use these services, even if this isn’t your first time with a child. Each experience is unique, and we’re here to help guide you through it.”
Mom’s Place staff comprises International Board Certified Lactation Consultants, Registered Nurses, and WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselors. With their combined experience, they have helped families navigate not only breastfeeding concerns but also the postpartum experience – a very vulnerable time for all moms and families.
Anyone looking for support can contact Mom’s Place by calling 512-972-6700.