Donations Save Lives
Providing human milk saves the lives of fragile newborns who cannot get their own mother’s milk, but some mothers don’t have enough milk to feed their babies while they are in the hospital, but healthy breastfeeding mothers at home can help us make sure those babies continue to get human milk and the best care available.
If you have extra milk in your freezer at home we can accept as little as 100 ounces (that’s about 17 of the milk storage bags!) to as much as you think you can send! For our donor milk recipients, the gift you give can be lifesaving.
Step 2: Complete Paperwork
The UAMS Milk Bank will need some information form you before we can accept a donation.
Step 3: Get Bloodwork
You don’t have to fast and there is no charge to you.
Step 4: Send the Milk
Contact us to have shipping containers sent to you (free of charge) or drop them at one of our drop-off locations.
Drop-Off LocationsFrequently Asked Questions
Do donors have to send 100 ounces of milk at a time?
There is no minimum or maximum amount required to donate at one time. Donors are asked to commit to donating 100 ounces over their entire donation period.
Should the milk be fresh or frozen when sent to the milk bank?
We only accept frozen milk that has previously been stored in freezers, preferably deep freezers.
How old can milk be when donated?
We prefer to receive milk before it is six months old. If you have milk that is older than six months, please contact us for further assessment.
Where is my milk sent following the pasteurization process?
After pasteurization and lab testing, the majority of donor milk is sent to Arkansas neonatal intensive care units.
Are donors compensated for their donation?
Donors do not receive any payment for their donations.
Are donors able to send their milk from out-of-state or in an area without a milk depot?
We will gladly send insulated boxes and cover all shipping expenses for donors who wish to send their milk.
Can donors send milk already stored in their freezers before the screening process is complete?
Donors may send us frozen milk that is within the acceptable age range and free of restricted medications and therapies. Please note, for safety reasons, milk sent to the milk bank cannot be returned.
What kind of storage containers are recommended for donated milk?
All types of milk storage containers are acceptable. However, we can provide storage bags when available, so that donors do not have to purchase their own.
How long can donors donate?
Approved donors are allowed to donate for as long as they wish, regardless of the age of their baby.