The NJ Breastfeeding Coalition is a collaboration of families, health professionals, and community representatives whose mission is to protect, promote and support breastfeeding by working collaboratively.
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The New Jersey Breastfeeding Coalition (NJBC) plays a key role in building systems that protect, promote, and support breastfeeding across the state. Founded in 1988 as a task force and formally established as a coalition in 2011, NJBC brings together healthcare providers, advocates, parents, and community leaders to create long-term change.
Rather than providing direct lactation care, NJBC focuses on collaboration, advocacy, and education. Through initiatives like the NJ Breastfeeding Strategic Plan, ZipMilk.org, and partnerships with the NJ Department of Health, NJBC works to strengthen policies, improve hospital standards, and expand access to lactation resources statewide.
The Coalition also prioritizes equity, working to address racial and ethnic disparities in breastfeeding outcomes. This includes efforts to diversify the lactation workforce and support aspiring IBCLCs from underrepresented communities.
Current NJBC Projects
- ZipMilk.org: NJBC maintains this searchable online directory to help families find local lactation support, including IBCLCs, La Leche League Leaders, WIC peer counselors, and other trusted providers across New Jersey. Learn more.
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Advocating for IBCLC Licensure and Insurance Credentialing: Supporting legislation and policy efforts to ensure IBCLCs are licensed and recognized by insurers for reimbursement.
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Breastfeeding-Friendly Childcare Training Program: Creating and sharing evidence-based training for childcare providers to better support breastfeeding families. Learn more.
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Educational Materials on Lactating and Pumping Individuals’ Rights: Developing accessible materials to help families and employers understand workplace and public lactation protections. Learn more.
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Lactation Professional Navigation Program: Providing mentorship, funding, and guidance for aspiring IBCLCs from underrepresented communities to strengthen workforce diversity.
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Community Outreach and Education: Tabling at community events, connecting families to local support, and sharing trusted information.
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Professional Education: Providing education and training to perinatal health workers to expand lactation knowledge and advocacy across the care continuum. Learn more.
Together, these projects reflect our mission to make breastfeeding the norm, advance equity, and ensure every family has the support they need.
