APEX, N.C. — As the formula shortage continues, moms have been relying on social media to help them feed their newborns.

What You Need To Know

  • Social media groups enable moms to find formula or breastmilk to feed their newborns

  • Donors share posts of formula or breastmilk they don't need, and those in need can make requests

  • The FDA says the choice to feed a baby human milk from a source other than the baby’s mother should be made in consultation with the baby’s health care provider

Donors share posts of formula, or breastmilk, they don't need, and others can make requests in social media groups, such as Triangle Milk Share, a Facebook group with more than 3,000 members.

North Carolina groups like Human Milk 4 Human Babies, also on Facebook, went from getting a few requests and offer posts a day to dozens.

One Apex mom who said her daughter depends on donated breast milk says she is thankful for the generosity of the community.

“If you need milk, these moms are wanting to help you, and it's a good thing for your babies at this time," Jessica Fenton said. "I know how hard it is." 

The FDA says the choice to feed a baby human milk from a source other than the baby’s mother should be made in consultation with the baby’s health care provider.

The American Academy of Pediatrics also says it’s always best to consult a medical doctor if you are not using a regulated milk bank for breastmilk. 

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