VRMC celebrates breastfeeding support during World Breastfeeding Week
In recognition of World Breastfeeding Week, observed August 1–7, 2026, Valley Regional Medical Center is honoring the lactation consultants, educators, mothers and breastmilk donors who help give babies a healthy start.
Although breastfeeding is a natural process, many families experience challenges, particularly during the first days and weeks after birth. Valley Regional Medical Center’s lactation team provides compassionate, bilingual and individualized guidance to help parents build confidence and reach their breastfeeding goals.
Support services include:
- Bilingual breastfeeding classes that prepare and educate expectant and new parents
- Follow-up calls for postpartum mothers during their first days at home
- Free, one-on-one lactation counseling during and after a hospital stay
- Specialized support for families in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, including assistance to help premature and medically fragile infants successfully latch before discharge
We are grateful to the mothers, donors, nurses and educators whose dedication makes this work possible,” said Kim Vergara, chief nursing officer at Valley Regional Medical Center. “Their commitment strengthens infant health and supports families throughout our community.”
Valley Regional Medical Center also serves as Brownsville’s only breastmilk collection depot through its partnership with the Mothers’ Milk Bank at Austin. From July 2025 through July 2026, local donors contributed 5,426 ounces of breastmilk, helping provide critical nutrition to premature and medically vulnerable infants across Texas.
“Breastfeeding support extends far beyond nutrition. It helps strengthen confidence, connection and a family’s overall well-being,” said Laura Muniz, an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant at Valley Regional Medical Center. “We are privileged to support families through each stage of their journey and help their babies receive the healthiest possible start.”
Observed annually during the first week of August, World Breastfeeding Week raises awareness of the health and developmental benefits of breastfeeding while emphasizing the importance of accessible, ongoing support for mothers, babies and families.