ATTA Breastmilk Community

France24: A growing community of breast milk donors in Uganda gives mothers hope

atta_web_admin — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 12:26:33 +0000

In 2021 we launched the ATTA Breastmilk Community to help fragile newborns access safe donor milk in Uganda. France 24 visited our work and spoke to families and donors about the impact. Watch their report below and read the full story on France 24.

Report by FRANCE 24: “A growing community of breast milk donors in Uganda gives mothers hope.”

Reducing Infant Mortality in Uganda through Breastmilk Donation

atta_web_admin — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 11:30:09 +0000

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 is all about ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for everyone, at every age. It focuses on preventing needless suffering from diseases that can be avoided, and on reducing premature deaths by addressing the health of entire populations — especially in regions carrying the heaviest disease burden or where communities are often left behind.

The goal also emphasizes the need for greater investments in research, health financing, and stronger systems for managing health risks.

A key target of SDG 3, “Good Health and Well-being,” is to end preventable deaths of newborns and children under 5 years old. By 2030, all countries are expected to reduce neonatal mortality to at least 12 per 1,000 live births, and under-5 mortality to at least 25 per 1,000 live births.

ATTA Breastmilk Community’s work — recently featured by UNDP — directly contributes to this vision, by ensuring that vulnerable babies have access to safe donor breast milk, giving them a better chance not only to survive, but to thrive.

Aljazeera Features ATTA Breastmilk Community Journey of Donor Breastmilk in Uganda

admin — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 14:13:03 +0000

Aljazeera Features ATTA Breastmilk Community Journey of Donor Breastmilk in Uganda

When a mother cannot breastfeed, donor breastmilk steps in to give fragile babies in Uganda a chance to survive and thrive.

Aljazeera captured our story, from the mothers who give, to the babies who receive, and the community that makes it all possible. This is love shared, hope restored, and lives saved. Watch our story featured on BBC below

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A post shared by Al Jazeera English (@aljazeeraenglish)

When No One Checks on Dad: Men’s Mental Health and Preterm Birth

atta_web_admin — Sun, 22 Jun 2025 18:16:24 +0000

June is Men’s Mental Health Month — and at ATTA, we’re shining a light on the fathers who often stand quietly in the background of preterm birth stories.

When a baby is born too soon, the spotlight naturally falls on the mother and child. Both are vulnerable, both in need of immediate care. But quietly, in the background, is someone else navigating an equally intense — yet often invisible — journey: the father.

Just recently, during a hospital visit, we met a father who shared the unseen weight so many carry. His wife was rushed into early delivery at just 28 weeks due to liver failure. With her admitted to the ICU and their newborn taken to the NICU, he suddenly became the anchor holding everything together — coordinating care, fielding updates, managing home responsibilities, and making urgent medical decisions.

When the baby required breast milk and the mother was still unconscious, he was at a loss. It was only through a health worker’s recommendation that he learned about the ATTA Breastmilk Community.

I didn’t know where else to turn. My wife was fighting for her life, and my baby needed milk. When someone told me about the ATTA Breastmilk Community, I didn’t believe such kindness existed — but that milk helped save my child.

Thanks to the generosity of donor mothers, his child received the nutrition they urgently needed. Today, both mother and baby are on the road to recovery — a testament to community support in action.

He recalls, “I had never heard of such a thing. But in that moment, I was willing to try anything. That milk helped save my baby.”

We encounter fathers grappling with the emotional and logistical complexities of having a preterm baby, often with limited guidance or support. Some never spoke of their fears, worries, or emotional toll, even months after the baby came home.

Fathers are not secondary players, they are essential to family stability and child survival. However, health systems and policies often overlook their needs. There’s a cultural silence around men’s mental health, especially when it intersects with caregiving.

At ATTA Breastmilk Community, our work goes far beyond providing milk. We often meet fathers during our milk drop visits — fathers who are doing their best to hold things together while their baby fights to grow stronger. These moments open the door to honest conversations.

As a community, our role in supporting fathers is just as crucial as our support for mothers and their babies. Supporting preterm babies means supporting everyone who loves them. And that includes the fathers who stand strong — even when no one checks on them.

As we mark Men’s Mental Health Month, let’s commit to creating space for these fathers — to listen, to support, and to include them in every part of the neonatal journey. We believe no parent should be left to walk this path alone. If you’re a father in need of support, or a health worker, policymaker, or community member ready to make a difference, we invite you to join us. Let’s build a more compassionate, inclusive system — one that sees and supports every voice around the incubator.

Supporting Women, Nurturing Communities

atta_web_admin — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 04:11:37 +0000

In any community, women flourish when they have empathy, understanding, and shared resources at their fingertips. At ATTA, we recognize that every mother deserves more than just help—she deserves a caring network committed to her well-being. Our Breastmilk Community was born from this conviction, linking mothers in need of breastmilk with others who have an abundant supply. Beyond providing vital nourishment for babies, this effort has illuminated a pathway of hope for countless mothers who might otherwise feel isolated or overwhelmed. It is a testament to how, when women stand together, they create life-changing bonds that uplift entire communities.

Our approach is grounded in collaboration, empathy, and practical action. From day one, we have worked closely with healthcare professionals, community organizations, and dedicated volunteers to create a seamless process for donating and receiving breastmilk. This unified effort has not only saved families from the stress of uncertain feeding options but also fostered an environment where mothers can share experiences, advice, and reassurance.

I felt overwhelmed when my daughter arrived prematurely,” shares Sarah, a mother who received donated breast milk through our ATTA. “Knowing that another mother cared enough to provide the nourishment my baby needed was a source of great comfort and relief.

Countless stories like Sarah’s illustrate the core value that drives ATTA: no mother should feel alone. Our Breastmilk Community flourishes because it is built on small acts of kindness that have a life-changing impact. Whether it’s a phone call offering encouragement, a message in our online forum, or a carefully packed cooler of donated breastmilk, these simple gestures can ease anxiety, restore confidence, and strengthen a mother’s resolve.

“It isn’t just about the milk. It’s about knowing someone is there for you. Sharing advice, listening without judgment, and celebrating each milestone can turn an otherwise difficult journey into a shared triumph.” a donor mother.

Beyond direct assistance, ATTA has played an important role in sparking conversations about maternal needs in workplaces and communities. We collaborate with employers to promote policies such as dedicated nursing rooms and flexible schedules for breastfeeding mothers. By demonstrating the positive outcomes of inclusive practices, we help influence broader societal acceptance and ensure that mothers everywhere can thrive.

“Having a private room at work to pump without feeling rushed was a turning point for me. That small change had a huge impact on my morale and productivity.” - says a mother.

Every mother’s story reflects the power of collective action. When women join forces, they not only uplift one another but also drive meaningful changes—at home, in the office, and across entire communities. ATTA Breastmilk Community is living proof that simple acts of generosity can scale into a larger movement, shaping policies and cultural norms that treat motherhood with the respect it deserves.

Speak up when you see a mother who needs help, raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding support, and show kindness to the women around you who may be juggling countless responsibilities. By working together, we can nurture a culture that values and protects every mother, ensuring that our collective future is as bright and healthy as the children we hold so dear.

Giving Hope Where I Lost Mine: How Breastmilk Delivery Helped ATTA’s Rider Cope with Grief

atta_web_admin — Sun, 03 Mar 2024 14:24:46 +0000

I was a boda boda rider in the area of Naalya. I had a good number of clients for whom I would run errands. These included transporting people, shopping, delivering items and sometimes banking money.

One of my clients was a lady called Dorothy who I used to take to Kyambogo University where she was studying. However, when she completed her studies, she shifted to Kira and I could no longer affordably serve her. I therefore asked her to find another boda boda rider close to her new home to cut costs.

Because our relationship had been built over time and she had grown to trust me; she did not take it well that she had to find another person. She, however, stayed in touch even when she got another boda boda rider.

Later on I received a call from an unknown caller who introduced herself as Tracy. She informed me that Dorothy had shared my number with her. She was in need of a boda boda rider to deliver a package to Kulambiro and asked if I could do the job; to which I agreed.

Tracy asked me to be at her place by 8am the next morning. I had no idea what I would be transporting but I trusted her because of my relationship with Dorothy. I was handed a bag and told to pass by Dorothy’s home.

When I got to Dorothy’s home, I handed over the bag as I had been instructed. I watched Dorothy walk to the refrigerator, pick some items and place them in the bag. Though Tracy had told me that it was milk, I didn’t know what kind it was. Without questioning, I received back the bag. Having watched the Transporter movie series, I did not check to see what exactly was in the package; I knew it wouldn’t be right.

With the contact details provided, I got in touch with the recipient and handed over the package.. Tracy had told me that all he had to do was pay me for delivering the package; I asked for Ugx10,000. This, I learnt, was Ugx10,000 less what the previous rider had charged him. Shocked at the amount I had asked for, he decided to give me the Ugx 20,000. He took the bag, emptied its content and gave it back to me.

I later learnt that the person who had been doing the deliveries before me had left the country for work. I heard that Tracy had tried to look for help from other boda boda riders but they were overcharging clients in delivery fees. Tracy then sought help from friends on a certain group for a trustworthy boda boda rider and Dorothy recommended me. She assured her that I was humane, honest and respectful; my profile is what brought me to ATTA. I started working for ATTA without knowing the organization or Tracy. She saw how I worked and believed I was a good fit.

The next time I was sent to Dorothy’s home, she asked if I knew what kind of milk I was transporting. I told her I did not know. She took time to explain that I was delivering breast milk to frail babies that needed it to survive and grow well. She then showed me what it looked like in a milk bag.

That day I made my last Kulambiro delivery and for the first time I knew how precious the package I handed over was. I was playing a part in saving lives of little children. As a father, I knew how golden the opportunity was.

Shortly after this I started making trips to another mother in Wampewo. It is around this time that my child fell sick. I was still doing the ATTA work but it was a difficult season given the hospital trips I often had to make while trying to offer as much emotional support as possible to my wife. But while attending to my own problems, I knew that another child’s survival also depended on me delivering the needed milk. So I made sure that even amidst the chaos, the milk was delivered.

Unfortunately, my child’s situation did not change and he eventually died. By that time I had worked for ATTA for about a month. When the child died, I received a call from Tracy to make a delivery and I told her I had lost a child and was preparing for burial. I had not told her about my sick child. Tracy was shocked that I had been quiet about my situation when ATTA could have been of help. I told her that I had just joined and didn’t know if ATTA had any connections with doctors that could have helped. She stood with me financially and charged me not to ever be quiet in my times of trouble.

After the burial, I could not stay home. The memories of my child all around the house haunted me. The visitors though so graciously checking on us made it even more emotionally draining.

Tracy later on called and asked me if I was going to continue working since ATTA work was related to babies and I had just lost mine. I told her that I didn’t want any other parent to go through the pain that I was dealing with. I was determined to work even harder to make sure as many babies were saved.

I started delivering milk two days after I buried my child. Time and time again, as I picked or delivered the milk, I would encounter children his age and I would break down and cry. But deep down I knew that I was better off out here in the field helping other parents not lose their children than being home pitying myself.

Out here I was able to grieve meaningfully; seeing hope where I had lost mine, and learning that not all was lost. If I had been educated, maybe I would have studied medicine and become a pediatrician so I could help as many children live.

I am however grateful that even now, I can still play a part in saving the lives of little children.

Nurturing Hope: The Power of Breastfeeding and Breast Milk Donation in Premature Babies’ Lives

atta_web_admin — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 06:09:09 +0000

Introduction:
The emotional toll of prematurity is profound. Parents find themselves balancing between the
excitement of a new life and the uncertainty of their child’s health. Feelings of guilt, anxiety, and helplessness are common companions on this journey. It’s a testament to the strength of families that, despite these challenges, they continue to provide unwavering love and support to their preterm infants.
According to the World Health Organization, prematurity is when a baby is born alive before 37
weeks of pregnancy are completed. This unexpected entrance into the world introduces a set of
unique challenges for both infants and their families. These challenges can range from medical
complexities to emotional and financial strains, requiring a resilient spirit to navigate this
uncharted territory. Among the various support systems available, breastfeeding emerges as a powerful ally in nurturing preterm infants.

The Miracle of Breastfeeding:
Breast milk is a natural gift that not only fosters a strong bond between mamas and their babies,
but also provides essential nutrients crucial for a baby’s development. For premature babies, this becomes even more critical. Breast milk is tailor-made to meet the unique needs of preterm babies, offering a perfect blend of nutrients and antibodies that protect them against infections and illnesses.
Premature babies often face challenges in their early days, and breast milk acts as a healing
elixir. It aids in the development of their fragile immune systems, promotes faster weight gain,
and reduces the risk of complications. The emotional connection formed during breastfeeding
also provides a sense of comfort and security for these tiny warriors.

Breast Milk Donation – A Lifesaving Act: In the face of these challenges, community support and awareness play a pivotal role.
Understanding the unique needs of preterm infants and their families fosters empathy and compassion. It encourages the creation of supportive environments in healthcare settings, workplaces, and public spaces, acknowledging the daily battles these families face.

Not every mama can breastfeed, and some preterm babies may not have access to their own mamas milk. This is where the incredible act of breast milk donation comes into play. Mamas who produce more milk than their baby needs can donate their surplus milk to milk banks. These banks ensure that preterm infants, whose mamas may be unable to provide sufficient milk, receive the nourishment they need for a healthy start in life.

Benefits of Breast Milk Donation:

Life-Saving Nutrition: Donated breast milk provides preterm infants with a lifeline of essential
nutrients, promoting healthy growth and development.
Immunological Support: The antibodies present in breast milk strengthen the immune system of premature babies, protecting them from infections.
Emotional Connection: Just as with breastfeeding, receiving donated breast milk fosters a sense of emotional connection and well-being for preterm infants.
Mama’s Health: Studies have revealed that breastfeeding has benefits for mama too, as it lowers the risk of developing certain cancers.

How Breast Milk Donation Works:

Screening: Donor mamas undergo a thorough screening process to ensure the safety and quality of the donated milk.
Collection: In a milk bank, the donated milk is carefully collected, stored, and pasteurized to
eliminate any potentially harmful bacteria while preserving its nutritional value.
Distribution: The processed milk is then distributed to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and directly to families with premature infants in need.
Informal milk sharing: In some places with no access to breast milk banks, breast milk sharing has been successful, especially in the presence of family and friends. Here, donors should be carefully tested for disease-causing pathogens that might transfer through the milk.

How You Can Contribute:

Raise Awareness: Share information about prematurity beyond special awareness weeks.
Encourage open conversations about the challenges faced by families dealing with prematurity.
Support Organizations: Contribute to or volunteer with organizations dedicated to prematurity awareness, breastfeeding support and breast milk banking. These organizations often provide resources, emotional support, and financial assistance to affected families. In Uganda, you can get more information about hospital-based milk donation from some private hospitals, Nsambya
Hospital and Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, and community-based donation at ATTA
Breastmilk Community.
Policy work: Advocate for policies that prioritize the importance of breastfeeding, the well-being of preterm infants and their families, ensuring access to quality healthcare and financial assistance.

Interview with Crystal Newman

admin — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 20:27:04 +0000

No one told me I needed a Breastmilk donor for my baby’s operation.

View Interview

Interview with Lisa Kusiima

admin — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 20:20:52 +0000

Tracy started the ATTA Breastmilk Community after realizing that Breastmilk is literally liquid gold for babies but due to different situations, many do not get it.

View Interview

For Food’s Sake Eat – An Interview on ATTA Breastmilk Community

admin — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 19:38:15 +0000

August is breastfeeding awareness month and just as we need food to survive, newborns need milk that they do not always have in abundance to grow and thrive. Tracy Ahumuza at Atta Breastmilk community shares how new mothers can share and donate milk to newborns who do not have enough and how you can be part of this effort, whether you are a mother or not.