February 2026
At Providence Hood River, we reflect what’s possible when a community shows up for its newest members — supporting families and strengthening health outcomes.
Human milk does more than nourish; it protects. Rich in antibodies and immune‑boosting properties, human milk helps babies fight respiratory infections, ear infections and other illnesses during their earliest days of life.
“Human milk is not just milk, it’s medicine,” says Jennifer McCauly, RN, a certified lactation consultant at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital’s Mother and Baby Clinic. “It’s considered a baby’s first immunization against bacteria, viruses and infectious diseases.”
Donor milk increases parents' access to care
While many parents plan to breastfeed, not all are able to produce milk right away — or enough to meet their newborn’s needs. In some cases, a baby’s care team determines that human milk is a medical necessity. When that happens, donor milk from other mothers can be lifesaving.
At Providence Hood River, families whose babies need donor milk can receive it for up to two weeks after hospital discharge at no extra cost.
“Until recently, babies who started on donor milk in the hospital would often go home and have to use formula until their own mother’s milk became available, which put them at increased risk of disease,” Jennifer says.
In 2024, Providence Hood River collected 4,865 ounces of donated human milk. That's more than 405 12-ounce bottles. The milk is sent to Providence’s partner, Northwest Mothers Milk Bank in Tigard, where it’s carefully tested, pasteurized and stored until it’s needed by a baby.
What makes the program especially meaningful is who’s giving back.
“We’re really lucky in our small community. Most of our donors are parents whose babies received donor milk during their own hospital stay," Jennifer says.
"They understand that the unique properties of human milk can’t be replicated by formula. For infants who are ill or at risk, human milk can truly be lifesaving.”
Related:
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See the original story at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital.
- See more of our services on at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital Mother and Baby Clinic.
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You can help keep babies’ bottles full by donating to Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital Foundation.
