MilkWorks

MilkWorks was founded in 2001 to address a lack of postpartum resources in the state. Our Community Breastfeeding Center offers a unique blend of clinical lactation support and free informal resources like drop-in baby weigh stations, classes, an online resource library, and weekly peer support groups.  We prioritize individual family goals and understand that parenthood looks different for everyone. With growing demands on new parents—especially mothers—we strive to empower each family to find what works best for them and their child.

Shortly after MilkWorks’ first community breastfeeding center opened, the complex interconnection between breastfeeding and maternal mental health became apparent. The experience of bringing home a newborn can be filled with complex emotions, from joy and affection to anxiety and despair. Negative postpartum emotions can profoundly impact maternal and infant well-being. Alarmingly, maternal deaths are rising nationwide, with mental health conditions among the leading causes. Despite these challenges, Nebraska lacks adequate resources to address perinatal mental health needs. The Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health gave Nebraska a “D” rating in 2024 due to limited screening, a provider shortage, and insufficient community-based services. Addressing these gaps is critical for better maternal and infant outcomes. 

Addressing these gaps is essential to improving outcomes for mothers and their children. MilkWorks hopes to strengthen our approach to maternal mental health challenges while identifying and addressing the gaps in our greater community through the Moms Mental Health Matters Project.