University Hospital Foundation raises awareness on the importance of breast feeding and the uses of breast pumps for healthy babies.

NICU Specialist identify the breast feeding needs of mom and baby. 

NICU Specialist emphasize the importance of breastfeeding and the uses of breast pumps.

As part of an awareness campaign and in support of new moms and babies, University Hospital Foundation launched a fundraising campaign to promote the benefits of breastfeeding and to raise funds to purchase breast pumps for moms in need.

“We provide an average of 60 pumps annually to moms who give birth in our hospital. However, we are almost out of our supply for the year with only 6 electric breast pumps left. Our breast pump program identifies and supports moms who demonstrate a financial need. We have a robust lactation program, that encourages moms to breastfeed because of the many benefits it provides to their newborns, especially babies in our NICU,” states Jessica Backofen, Executive Director, University Hospital Foundation.

The role of the foundation is to fundraise for important programs and services provided by the hospital.  There were 1261 deliveries in 2021 at University Hospital and about half of these patients did not have financial aid for breastfeeding.

Almost two-thirds of our patients have Medicaid, which does not cover the cost of a lactation specialist to assist new moms in learning about breast feeding or getting a breast pump.  Breast pumps are tools used by lactation specialists to help train moms on the many benefits of breast feeding. Breast feeding strengthens the bond between mom and baby and is the most affordable option for feeding babies.  Breast milk is highly nutritious and helps to strengthen a baby’s immune system, which is especially important for babies in the NICU.   Regular pumping enables mothers to continue feeding their babies, and breast pumps allow them to return to work, if needed.  “Breast pumps offer much-needed flexibility to help moms feed their babies nutrient rich breast milk, while they are at work and their babies are with a caregiver,” continues Backofen.

University Hospital Foundation is asking for donations to support this critical program through the end of September.   Additional details are located HERE.  Donation requests include;

  • Newborn Care Kit: $500
  • Electric Breast Pump: $165
  • Nutrition: $75
  • Nursing Pads: $20

University Hospital Foundation is a tax-exempt, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Our IRS identification number 47-1686351.  All donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law.

University Hospital Foundation

150 Bergen Street, D 209 C, Newark, NJ 07103

973.972.1873 | giving@uhnjfoundation.org