August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, and this year’s theme—Forward Together—is a powerful reminder that no parent should have to navigate early feeding alone. At The Up Center, we stand in unity with families, community advocates, and national partners like the U.S. Breastfeeding Committee to ensure every child gets the strongest start possible.
What “Forward Together” Means
The 2025 theme centers unity, solidarity, and hope, celebrating the strength of the advocates, organizations, and systems working to improve access to human milk and support all feeding journeys. It’s about pushing forward as a community—breaking down barriers, building supportive environments, and making breastfeeding support more inclusive and accessible for everyone.
The Up Center’s Doula Program: Walking Beside Families
Locally, The Up Center’s Early Parents as Teachers (PAT) Doula Program brings that same spirit of togetherness to life. Our doulas provide in-home support to pregnant and postpartum families, offering guidance during one of the most vulnerable and meaningful times in a parent’s life.
Our doulas help with:
- Breastfeeding education and support
- Infant feeding techniques and challenges
- Emotional encouragement and listening
- Referrals to lactation consultants and health resources
Whether a parent chooses to breastfeed, pump, or formula feed, our doulas offer compassionate, judgment-free care that meets families where they are.
Centering Equity, Access, and Community
Breastfeeding is not just a personal decision—it’s shaped by systems, policies, and access to care. At The Up Center, we believe in supporting families from all backgrounds, especially those in underserved communities who may face greater challenges in accessing breastfeeding support.
By joining national efforts like those of the U.S. Breastfeeding Committee, we continue to push forward for policy, systems, and environmental changes that ensure equitable access to “first food” for every baby.
Moving Forward, Together
This National Breastfeeding Month, we honor every parent’s journey—because feeding a baby is never one-size-fits-all. It takes strength. It takes support. And it takes community.
You are not alone. We’re here to help you move forward—together.
