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Breastfeeding with CinnaMoms

Whether you're preparing to breastfeed, nursing your newborn, pumping, returning to work, or feeding a growing toddler, CinnaMoms is here to support you. Our team provides breastfeeding education, lactation support, and a welcoming community where families can ask questions, share experiences, and connect with others on a similar journey.

Through support groups, one-on-one guidance, and community resources, we're committed to helping families reach their breastfeeding goals with confidence.

Black Breastfeeding Week 2026

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Black Breastfeeding Week is celebrated each year to raise awareness, celebrate Black families, and advocate for equitable breastfeeding support. Founded in 2013, the campaign highlights the importance of community, education, and access while bringing attention to the disparities Black families continue to face.

2026 Theme: We All We Got: 14 Years of Community, Care, and Collective Power

Black Breastfeeding Week 2026

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Black Breastfeeding Week is celebrated each year to raise awareness, celebrate Black families, and advocate for equitable breastfeeding support. Founded in 2013, the campaign highlights the importance of community, education, and access while bringing attention to the disparities Black families continue to face.

2026 Theme: We All We Got: 14 Years of Community, Care, and Collective Power

As we honor the history and purpose of Black Breastfeeding Week, CinnaMoms is proud to continue this work by creating spaces where Black families feel supported, celebrated, and empowered in their breastfeeding journeys. Join us throughout the week as we celebrate community, connection, and Black breastfeeding.

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Join Us On Zoom

Join us virtually for Milk & Melanin, where Black moms can connect, share experiences, and receive breastfeeding support from the comfort of home. Together, we'll create a welcoming space to learn, ask questions, and build community.

Join Us at our CinnaMoms Crenshaw WIC Site

Celebrate Black Breastfeeding Week with us at our CinnaMoms Crenshaw WIC site! Join us for a community-centered event created to uplift, support, and celebrate Black pregnant and breastfeeding moms through connection, breastfeeding resources, and a fun, welcoming atmosphere.

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#DearCinnaMoms

#DearCinnaMoms

Welcome to CinnaMoms, where we uplift, empower, and support Black families through honest conversations about pregnancy, breastfeeding, parenthood, wellness, and community. Join us as we share stories, expert insights, and practical resources designed to help families thrive—one conversation at a time.

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Let's Talk about Milk Supply

Wanda Kenlow, IBCLC

In this episode, Ms. Wanda, a Lactation Consultant, explores liquid gold aka Colostrum, tips on when your milk will come in, and the importance of a proper latch.

Super CinnaMoms Breastfeeding Stories

Every breastfeeding journey is unique, but no mom should have to navigate it alone. These inspiring Black mothers are sharing their experiences to encourage, uplift, and remind you that support, community, and confidence can make all the difference.

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Tamika

My name is Tamika, and I'm a proud mom of two—a 4-year-old daughter and a 5-month-old son. I first connected with CinnaMoms through WIC and have participated in everything from baby showers and Mommy Meet Ups to prenatal events, cooking demonstrations, and breastfeeding support. My first breastfeeding journey was challenging after my daughter was born prematurely and spent a month in the NICU. This time around, CinnaMoms has helped me feel much more confident. When I experienced severe engorgement after bringing my son home, I reached out to Rhonda, who immediately supported me with tips for relief, helped me get a hospital-grade breast pump, and made sure I had the correct flange size. I've also received guidance on latching, maintaining my milk supply, breastfeeding through teething, and even navigating questions about breastfeeding while celebrating special occasions—all without judgment. Beyond breastfeeding, CinnaMoms has supported my entire family. From receiving essential baby items and gift cards to learning about healthy eating and programs like Market Match, I've found resources that have made a real difference in our lives. To me, CinnaMoms represents empowerment for the community—a welcoming place where moms, dads, and children can all find support, education, and encouragement. My advice to other parents: "Stay with it. Keep trying and don't give up. One day you'll celebrate your success. If you're struggling, don't be afraid to ask for help. Whether it's in person or on Zoom, CinnaMoms has mentors who can guide you. Breastfeeding can be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding."

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Alyssa

My name is Alyssa, and I'm the proud mom of my daughter, Zenai. I first learned about CinnaMoms through a flyer at my local WIC office and decided to get involved. Since then, I've participated in the Mommy Shower, virtual lactation support, and other CinnaMoms activities that have helped me throughout my breastfeeding journey. One of the biggest ways CinnaMoms supported me was by providing a breast pump and helping me build my milk supply. When my daughter started favoring one breast over the other, I received guidance and encouragement that helped us successfully nurse on both sides. Along the way, I also learned new breastfeeding positions and gained reassurance that I was doing a great job as a new mom. Today, I feel confident and successful in my breastfeeding journey because of the support I've received. To me, CinnaMoms is made up of excellent supporters who truly care about families. I also love that CinnaMoms welcomes everyone—moms, babies, older siblings, and dads—and I hope more WIC families will have access to programs like this in the future. My advice to other parents: "Don't get discouraged. Give your baby time to learn, and remember that you're learning together. Simple tips, like using a warm compress to encourage milk flow or expressing a little milk to help with latching, can make a difference. With the right support, you can have a successful breastfeeding journey."

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Latefah

My name is Latefah, and I'm a proud mom of five. Each of my breastfeeding journeys has been different, and I'm currently breastfeeding my youngest daughter, Ilene, who is 22 months old. I first met Rhonda through WIC in 2014 while looking for breastfeeding support, and she introduced me to CinnaMoms. I've been attending CinnaMoms events since 2015. Over the years, I've participated in breastfeeding support groups and Mommy Meet Ups, where I've found encouragement, practical advice, and a community that truly understands the ups and downs of breastfeeding. Before finding CinnaMoms, I spent hours searching online for ways to increase my milk supply and often compared myself to what I saw on social media. CinnaMoms helped me build confidence in my own journey, offering tips for balancing breastfeeding with everyday life and reminding me to trust myself as a mom. Even after breastfeeding several children, I've continued to lean on CinnaMoms for support. As I navigate the emotions of breastfeeding my last baby and thinking about weaning, the encouragement I receive from other moms has helped me stay motivated and feel less alone. To me, CinnaMoms is nothing short of a miracle—a place that supports the whole family with education, resources, and genuine care. My advice to other parents: "Ask for help if you're struggling. Trust yourself—you know what's best for your baby. Every breastfeeding journey is different, and it's okay to lean on others for support. Be aware of what goes into your body, and remember that with the right guidance, there may be ways to continue your breastfeeding journey even when challenges arise."

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Ashley

My name is Ashley, and I'm the proud mom of my daughter, Bry'Lynn. I first learned about CinnaMoms through Rhonda when I enrolled in WIC, and it quickly became an important part of my breastfeeding journey. I've participated in Mommy Meet Ups, the Mommy Shower, virtual breastfeeding support groups, one-on-one lactation support with Janelle, and even attended events with my partner. Every service made a difference, but the combination of virtual support and hands-on lactation guidance helped me overcome some of my biggest breastfeeding challenges. In the beginning, breastfeeding was hard. Bry'Lynn had difficulty latching, pumping felt overwhelming, and the lack of sleep made everything even more challenging. With encouragement, education, and consistent support from CinnaMoms, I gained the confidence to keep going. Today, Bry'Lynn is exclusively breastfed, and I feel like a pro. What once felt impossible has become something I truly enjoy. One of the things I appreciate most about CinnaMoms is the opportunity to connect with other moms who understand what I'm going through. Getting out of the house, attending Mommy Meet Ups, and finding support during postpartum made a huge difference for me. CinnaMoms gave me the confidence to focus on my own breastfeeding journey instead of comparing myself to others. My advice to other parents: "Keep going. It can be easy to give up when things feel hard, but staying consistent really does make a difference. It gets better, and with support, you can be successful."

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Miracle

My name is Miracle, and I'm a first-time mom to my son, Ocean. My husband, Rain, and I discovered CinnaMoms during my third trimester after a friend from Black Infant Health shared information about the program. I immediately appreciated having a space created specifically for Black families where I could learn, ask questions, and prepare for motherhood. Throughout my pregnancy and postpartum journey, I participated in Mommy Meet Ups, prenatal yoga, breastfeeding support groups, Black Maternal Health Week events, and lactation services. Before Ocean arrived, I learned about cluster feeding, which helped me feel more prepared for those early days of breastfeeding. When I experienced engorgement, CinnaMoms taught me how to pump just enough for comfort instead of emptying the breast, encouraged me to prioritize latching my baby, and even helped me get a new breast pump through WIC when mine stopped working. Today, I feel much more confident in my breastfeeding journey. Beyond the education, I've appreciated connecting with other moms and staff who truly understand what I'm experiencing. Seeing moms who had already welcomed their babies helped me feel more prepared for motherhood, and having a community that looked like me made me feel welcomed, respected, and supported every step of the way. To me, CinnaMoms is relaxing and welcoming—a place that truly feels like family. My advice to other parents: "Every breastfeeding journey is different, so give yourself grace. Some days will be harder than others, but that doesn't mean you're doing anything wrong. It takes practice, patience, and support—and it's okay to lean on the people around you."

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Sheridan

My name is Sheridan, and my husband, Errol, and I are the proud parents of our son, Josiah. I first learned about CinnaMoms through WIC while I was pregnant and quickly found a welcoming community through Mommy Meet Ups, prenatal yoga, and breastfeeding support. During my pregnancy, I was nervous about breastfeeding because I have naturally sensitive breasts and worried that nursing or pumping would be painful. With encouragement from Rhonda and Janelle, I learned different techniques, including hand expression, and gained the confidence to keep trying. The Mommy Meet Ups and yoga event also gave me the opportunity to connect with other moms who understood exactly what I was going through, especially at a time when I didn't feel fully supported by my OB/GYN. My breastfeeding journey wasn't without challenges. When my son was admitted to the NICU, I had to advocate for the opportunity to breastfeed before bottle feeding. With patience, persistence, and the support I received from CinnaMoms, we were able to establish a successful breastfeeding relationship. Along the way, I also learned practical skills like proper milk storage, hand expression, and recognizing my baby's feeding cues. One of the things I appreciate most about CinnaMoms is the sense of support and community. It became a place where my entire family felt welcome. Seeing my husband participate in a CinnaDads group reminded me how important it is to support fathers, too, and to celebrate the involvement of Black dads. CinnaMoms has shown me that no family has to navigate this journey alone. My advice to other parents: "Be patient and remember that this is new for both you and your baby—you are learning together. Keep trying, ask questions, and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself and your baby. If pumping feels difficult, don't be afraid to try hand expression. Most importantly, give yourself grace and trust the process."

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Akeyva

My name is Akeyva, and I'm the proud mom of my son, Ace. At the beginning of my breastfeeding journey, I was told that my milk wasn't good enough. Thanks to the support of WIC, my Peer Counselor, and CinnaMoms, I'm now proudly exclusively breastfeeding my son. I first learned about CinnaMoms through my Peer Counselor, Tia, who encouraged me to attend an in-person Mommy Meet Up. From the very beginning, my experience with CinnaMoms has been wonderful—not only because of the caring staff, but also because of the incredible community of moms I met along the way. I participated in Mommy Meet Ups, breastfeeding support groups, and connected with other moms who understood exactly what I was going through. Before finding CinnaMoms, I didn't have much support from my family, and some people felt I was doing too much by wanting to exclusively breastfeed. I also struggled with concerns about my milk supply. Through breastfeeding education, encouragement, and the support of other moms, I gained confidence in my body and continued my breastfeeding journey successfully. Building a community with other breastfeeding moms made the biggest difference for me because I finally felt like I wasn't alone. Today, I know that CinnaMoms is there to support me not only as a breastfeeding mom, but as a person. It's a place where I feel comfortable asking questions, talking about life beyond breastfeeding, and receiving encouragement every step of the way. To me, CinnaMoms is simply supportive. My advice to other parents: "Believe in yourself and your body. Don't let anyone make you feel like your milk isn't enough. Surround yourself with people who encourage you, ask questions when you need help, and remember that you don't have to do this alone."

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Shamir

My name is Shamir, and I'm a proud mom of two and grandmother of one. With nearly 20 years between my children, I've found myself navigating motherhood all over again. I first learned about CinnaMoms through WIC and have been grateful for the support ever since. Throughout my journey, I've participated in Mommy Meet Ups, breastfeeding support groups, babywearing classes, and lactation support with Janelle, Willie, and Rhonda. One of my favorite experiences was the babywearing class because it allowed me to keep my baby close while strengthening our bond. Whenever I needed extra support—like when I experienced recurring breast pain—I knew I could stop by the CinnaMoms office and be welcomed by familiar, caring faces who were ready to help. Breastfeeding has been a completely different experience this time around. With my first child, I viewed breastfeeding simply as a way to feed my baby. Now, I truly appreciate the bond it creates, and I'm more intentional about nourishing both myself and my baby. Through CinnaMoms, I've received breastfeeding education, learned more about healthy nutrition, and even discovered the benefits of shopping at local farmers' markets. To me, CinnaMoms is community and family—a welcoming place where I always feel supported, encouraged, and surrounded by people who genuinely care. My advice to other parents: "Go in soft—be gentle with yourself. Try not to take in too much outside advice. Trust yourself, trust your baby, and trust what your body needs."

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Dishanda

My name is Dishanda, and I'm the proud mom of my 6-month-old baby. I first learned about CinnaMoms through WIC after seeing a flyer, and I'm so grateful I decided to get involved. Throughout my breastfeeding journey, I've participated in Mommy Meet Ups, prenatal and postpartum events, virtual lactation support, and Peer Counseling. The biggest difference for me was knowing I had a place where I felt heard. Every question I asked was met with kindness, patience, and encouragement—I never felt rushed or alone. In the beginning, breastfeeding was difficult. My baby had trouble latching, I didn't know how to hand express, and I didn't realize that breastfeeding shouldn't be painful. CinnaMoms taught me how to position my baby for a deeper, more comfortable latch and gave me the confidence to advocate for myself and ask questions. One of my favorite experiences was attending the Mommy Shower, where moms were celebrated and reminded that we matter too. Today, I feel much more confident in my breastfeeding journey because I know I have the knowledge and support I need. To me, CinnaMoms is supportive and kind—a group of caring women who truly go above and beyond for families. My advice to other parents: "Take your time, and don't be so hard on yourself. Give yourself grace. We're all learning, and it's okay to ask questions—there are no dumb questions."

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Jamelia

My name is Jamelia, and I'm the proud mom of my daughter, Azariah. I first learned about CinnaMoms during my first WIC appointment, and it quickly became a place where I found support, encouragement, and community throughout my breastfeeding journey. As a first-time breastfeeding mom, I faced challenges with latching, and having a baby in the NICU made it difficult to establish breastfeeding and build that early connection. Through one-on-one lactation support, weekly breastfeeding follow-ups, Mommy Meet Ups, and receiving an electric breast pump and nipple shield when I needed them, CinnaMoms gave me the guidance and confidence to keep going. Today, I feel much more comfortable with breastfeeding and pumping, and I've learned that asking for help is a strength. CinnaMoms has connected me with other moms, valuable community resources, and a support system that has made my journey feel less overwhelming. Every experience—from lactation support to Mommy Meet Ups—has helped me grow in confidence as both a breastfeeding mom and a parent. My advice to other parents: "It takes a village. Accept the help that's offered, make time to rest, nourish your body, and never give up. Any amount of breast milk is valuable, and every step of your breastfeeding journey is worth celebrating."

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Ameek

My name is Ameek, and I’m the proud mom of a 2-month-old baby. My family loves the outdoors and creating experiences together. I first learned about CinnaMoms in 2019 when I was at the Inglewood WIC office and asked if there was a program specifically for Black moms. That question connected me with Rhonda and introduced me to CinnaMoms. Throughout my journey, I’ve participated in Mommy Meet Ups, virtual lactation support, and services at CinnaMoms Crenshaw. The Mommy Meet Ups and lactation support have made the biggest difference for me because of the connections I’ve built and the breastfeeding guidance I’ve received. When I needed support after my baby was born, CinnaMoms was there to help me navigate concerns and connect me with resources, including a WIC breast pump. Before my baby arrived, CinnaMoms helped educate and prepare me for breastfeeding. I had fears and doubts, but the support I received helped me feel empowered and gave me the confidence to keep going. There have been moments when I could have given up, but knowing I have a village behind me has helped me stay hopeful in my breastfeeding journey. To me, CinnaMoms is abundance and village. The love and support are unmatched, and I know I have a place where I can ask questions and be heard. I've also made connections that I believe will last a lifetime—my baby even has friends to grow up with. Through CinnaMoms, I've been able to create a village of my own. My advice to other parents: "You're not alone. Always reach out and talk to somebody. And be prepared for your little Velcro baby—we're attached at the nip, not the hip!"

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Renesha

My name is Renesha, and I'm a proud mom of two—a 15-year-old son and my 16-month-old daughter, Harmony, who I'm still breastfeeding. I first learned about CinnaMoms through WIC after transferring from another location, and I found a community that has encouraged and supported me throughout my journey. I've participated in Mommy Meet Ups, support groups, virtual events, and lactation services with Janelle. I especially enjoy the meet ups because they give me a chance to connect with other moms and build relationships with the CinnaMoms staff. One experience that really stayed with me was a self-care session. As moms, we spend so much time taking care of everyone else that sometimes we don't realize how much we need that time for ourselves. With my first child, I breastfed for over a year but didn't have much support and had to figure things out on my own. This time, when I had concerns about how much milk I was getting while pumping, Janelle helped me find a flange size that worked better for me. I've also picked up helpful information from CinnaMoms educators and other moms, including learning about foods like oats that may help support milk production. My breastfeeding journey is still going strong, and having a community to turn to has made a difference. To me, CinnaMoms is encouraging—it's like having family or a best friend. I've built real relationships through the meet ups and know there's somewhere I can turn when I need support. My advice to other parents: "The hard days will happen. Don't feel like you're a bad mom. We all have emotions and moments when we feel overwhelmed, and that's when support is so important. Find someone you can talk to—whether it's family, friends, or CinnaMoms."

CinnaMoms Breastfeeding Team

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Janelle, IBCLC

Lactaction Consultant 

I am Janelle Asobo, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) dedicated to supporting families throughout their unique breastfeeding journeys. My passion for lactation support began in 2021 when I served as a WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor. To deepen my expertise, I earned my IBCLC credential in 2024. For the past year, I have proudly served as the Lactation Consultant at CinnaMoms Crenshaw, providing compassionate, evidence-based care to families in our community. My professional work is deeply rooted in my personal experience as a mother. I breastfed my first child for four months and my second child for three years. These contrasting experiences gave me firsthand insight into the diverse challenges and triumphs of breastfeeding. Whether you need short-term troubleshooting or ongoing guidance, I am here to empower, educate, and support you every step of the way.

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Willie Ann, CLE

Peer Counselor

I am Willie Ann Cooper-Rowles, a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor with five years of experience supporting families and a proud PHFE WIC team member for over 22 years. My personal breastfeeding journey began with my second child, whom I breastfed for four and a half months. That experience inspired my passion for helping other mothers navigate their own feeding journeys. I am committed to sharing my knowledge, learning new skills, and providing encouragement to help families reach their breastfeeding goals. I am dedicated to reducing barriers to breastfeeding and improving maternal and infant health outcomes by connecting families to the resources, education, and support they need to succeed. My goal is to continue growing in the field of lactation and become an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

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Rhonda, CLE

CinnaMoms Breastfeeding Project Specialist 

I am Rhonda, and my breastfeeding journey began more than 20 years ago with the birth of my first son. While I initially believed breastfeeding would come naturally, I quickly learned the importance of support when I experienced early challenges with pain and latching. Thanks to the guidance of a lactation professional, I was able to overcome those obstacles and successfully breastfeed my son for 18 months. As a mother of multiple children, including one whom I breastfed for nearly four years, I have experienced both the challenges and rewards of breastfeeding firsthand. My journey also opened my eyes to the lack of breastfeeding support and representation available to many Black families. These experiences inspired my passion for helping others navigate their own feeding journeys. Today, I am committed to providing encouragement, education, and culturally responsive support to families. Whether you are preparing to breastfeed, facing challenges, or seeking ongoing guidance, I am here to support you every step of the way.

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Infant Feeding Helpline

To schedule an appointment at the CinnaMoms Crenshaw Breastfeeding Clinic, please call the Breastfeeding Helpline and let them know you would like to schedule a visit with an IBCLC  or Peer Counselor (PC) at our CinnaMoms Crenshaw Clinic.​

 

Breastfeeding Helpline:  1 (888) 278-6455

 

Need breastfeeding support between clinic visits? Our CinnaMoms Crenshaw Breastfeeding Specialist, Rhonda, is here to help! Call (323) 971-3930 for breastfeeding guidance, questions, and support, or visit Janelle and Willie during our Walk-In Breastfeeding Support Hours every Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

You don't have to navigate your breastfeeding journey alone—we're here to help every step of the way.

Breastfeeding Information & Support

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program

Expecting a baby and planning to breastfeed? Our Breastfeeding Peer Counselors are moms who have personal breastfeeding experience and are specially trained to provide

 

encouragement, support, and practical tips. They can help answer your questions and support you throughout your breastfeeding journey.

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Baby Friendly Hospitals

A Baby-Friendly Hospital is a hospital that follows evidence-based practices to help families successfully start and continue breastfeeding.

 

Choosing a Baby-Friendly Hospital can help you feel supported from the moment your baby is born.

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Breast pumps

Are you going back to work, or do you need to pump your breast milk while you are away from your baby? WIC can provide you with a free manual and electric breast pumps to help you reach your breastfeeding goals. Nursing mothers should talk to their WIC center staff or call (888) 278-6455 to learn more.

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Call (888) 278-6455

Breastfeeding in Public

Breastfeeding is protected by law, and you deserve to feel supported wherever your feeding journey takes you.

 

Learn about your rights to breastfeed in public and the workplace so you can confidently advocate for yourself and your baby.

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Tips for You & Your Baby

Understanding the History of Breastfeeding in the Black Community

Breastfeeding has a rich and complex history within the Black community. During slavery in the United States, many enslaved Black women were forced to serve as wet nurses, often caring for the children of enslavers while being separated from or unable to feed their own children. This history continues to influence conversations about breastfeeding, family traditions, and infant feeding choices today.

To learn more about the history of breastfeeding and wet nursing among Black women, visit the Black Women's Health Imperative's resource. 

What Our CinnaMoms Are Saying

Professional & Community Resources

Connect with organizations and professional communities that support aspiring and current lactation professionals through education, mentorship, networking, scholarships, conferences, and career development opportunities.

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    WIC is a special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children. If you’re pregnant, or a caretaker of a child under age five, you can get personalized support for yourself and your family.

     

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    When you support CinnaMoms you are empowering a modern, millennial-strong organization that continues to make real change happen in the lives of real people.

     

    CinnaMoms Crenshaw 3667 Crenshaw Blvd. Los Angeles, CA, 90016

     

    Monday - Friday: 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM
     

    The PHFE WIC Program is thrilled to support CinnaMoms as part of its mission to improve the lives of families through breastfeeding. 

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