1974
Founding: Maria Teresa (Teresa) Asquith establishes Mothers’ Milk Bank, the oldest operating nonprofit milk bank in the U.S., to address the need for human milk for premature infants. The initiative begins with local milk donors responding to a pediatrician’s urgent call for a baby suffering from malabsorption syndrome.
1980s
HIV and AIDS Epidemic: The epidemic leads to widespread fear and milk bank closures. Despite facing decreased supply and demand, Mothers’ Milk Bank continues to operate. Partnering with the CDC, the organization helps dispel fears about disease transmission through donor milk. Routine HIV screening is introduced in 1990 by HMBANA, with no reported infections among recipients.
2020
Coronavirus Pandemic: The pandemic amplifies the need for donor milk. Mothers’ Milk Bank adapts by implementing rigorous safety protocols and providing essential information on the health benefits of human milk. The organization navigates supply chain disruptions, formula shortages, and safety recalls to continue serving families and healthcare providers.
2024
50th Anniversary: Celebrating five decades of service, Mothers’ Milk Bank now distributes over one million ounces of donor milk annually through 11 collection centers across the country. As a charter member of HMBANA, the organization upholds high standards in milk banking and remains dedicated to supporting NICUs, medical facilities, and families with safe, high-quality human milk.