Humpty Dumpty Foundation has sprung into action to help Central Coast Local Health District provide seven breast pumps for its midwifery and Aboriginal health services.
The Pumped For Life Mother’s Day Appeal aims to provide urgently needed, hospital-grade breast pumps to hospitals and health services across Australia from now until May 12.
A Foundation spokesperson said a lack of access to hospital-grade breast pumps in neonatal clinics put newborns at risk, particularly premature or critically ill babies.
“For many new mothers, watching their baby fight for life in an isolated humidicrib is an unimaginable challenge,” she said.
“Expressing milk is one of the few things they can do to nurture and connect with their baby.
“Across Australia, almost one in five babies require admission to Special Care Nursery or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in the hospital.
“This is 17% of babies born who require specialised care.”
The spokesperson said a hospital-grade breast pump became vital when physical contact wasn’t possible, ensuring newborns received the essential nutrition and antibodies they needed to survive and thrive.
“Mother’s milk for premature babies is crucial to improve digestive function, reduce infection, improve brain and eye development and improve bonding between mother and baby.”
The Humpty Dumpty Foundation’s Pumped For Life appeal first launched for Mother’s Day in 2024 as a response to the urgent need to support new and nursing mums in every state and territory.
You can donate at www.humpty.org.au/pumpedforlife
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