To Whom It May Concern,

For many women, breastfeeding doesn’t come naturally; it is a skill to be learned and practiced, and it can be a journey filled with challenges.

I discovered this firsthand six months ago when my son, Lennox, was born. As I settled into motherhood, the initial excitement quickly turned into feelings of overwhelm and uncertainty. I was producing too much milk and struggled to find the right position for my baby. Worst of all, Lennox just wouldn’t latch, and I felt the clock ticking against me.

I’m fortunate to have a supportive network of family and friends, but emotional encouragement isn’t the same as practical guidance. My mom breastfed me three decades ago, and her memories were hazy when I needed specific answers. My cousin shared her own experience, but it left me feeling anxious, warning me of pain and complications.

At first, I hesitated to ask for help. I wanted to embrace the intimate nature of motherhood without involving others, but by the end of that first week, I felt lost and isolated. It was my husband who gently urged me to reach out to Public Health Solutions. I remembered seeing their Breastfeeding Warmline listed when I left the hospital. With a mix of hope and skepticism, I called, not expecting much.

The Warmline changed my life. I know it could change the lives of other new mothers, too.

To my surprise, I heard back within minutes. Amen Ayanru, the program manager and a skilled lactation consultant, sensed my struggle immediately. “You need someone in your corner,” she said. “I’ll make time for you today.”

In our meeting, Amen provided the practical advice I was desperate for—how to pump, how to hold Lennox while nursing, and how to encourage his latch. It was a relief to finally have guidance I could trust. Almost instantly, Lennox began to latch properly, and I felt a weight lift off my shoulders.

We met regularly, and beyond the practical tips, Amen offered me emotional support. I remember one session vividly. I arrived feeling defeated because Lennox had choked while nursing earlier that day. I was consumed by guilt, but Amen reassured me, “It’s common, and it’s not your fault. You’re doing great. You are being an amazing mother.” Her kindness reminded me that I deserved to be treated with dignity, something I hadn’t experienced in my postpartum journey until that moment.

The NYC Breastfeeding Warmline, led by PHS, was truly transformative for me. So many mothers don’t know about services like these—or that they’re free—made possible by donors like you. For Black women, there’s often pressure to be strong and self-sufficient, but we need to be reminded that it’s okay to be vulnerable, too. I’m grateful I picked up the phone that day. Because of the support I received, I can be the attentive mother I want to be.

Now, at six months, Lennox is thriving, and Amen still checks in on us. The passion of the PHS staff is evident, and I know I can always count on them.

The Warmline changed my life and my parenting journey. I know it could change the lives of other new mothers, too. Your support can make that happen. Right now, the staff relies on volunteers. Lactation specialists like Amen work long hours to cover calls from mothers. The number of calls she’s received has nearly doubled since last year.

More funding for the Warmline means more staff, more training, and more awareness, so mothers like me can get the care they need. This is such important work. And your donation will make these services available for other mothers like me.

Please don’t wait. Donate now to help a mother and her baby get the support they need.

Sincerely,

Daisia Glover, Warmline Participant

P.S. Breastfeeding saves lives and is associated with better health outcomes for both parent and child. A staggering 97% of mothers in a recent survey expressed a need for breastfeeding support. Yet, countless women remain unaware that help is just a phone call away. Your donation can bridge that gap, empowering mothers across New York to nurture their babies with confidence. Together, we can ensure that no mother feels alone on her breastfeeding journey. Help us raise the next generation— donate today to make a lasting difference in the lives of mothers and their little ones.

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