Free Breastfeeding Help You Didn’t Know Existed (But Should Have)

Breastfeeding is one of the most personal decisions a mother can make—and also one of the most rewarding, challenging, and nuanced. As a mom who chose to both breastfeed and pump, I’ve experienced both the beauty and the complexity firsthand. While I nursed on demand for the first few months, I also relied heavily on pumping to build up a stash for when I needed breaks or wanted to include my partner in feedings. That said, my daughter had other plans—and by five months old, she completely refused pumped milk!

Whether you're planning to breastfeed, pump, combo-feed, or formula-feed—remember this: a fed baby is best. You are not defined by how you choose to feed your baby. There is no shame in choosing what works best for your family, your mental health, and your lifestyle.

For moms choosing or considering breastfeeding or pumping, there are incredible free resources available nationwide that can make the journey smoother, more informed, and more supported. Below is a list of trusted programs, support systems, and tools you can tap into—no matter where you live.

Free Breastfeeding Resources Nationwide

1. WIC (Women, Infants & Children Program)

WIC provides:

• Certified peer counselors

• Lactation consultants

• Breast pumps (manual and electric)

• Breastfeeding classes

• Special food packages for breastfeeding moms and babies

Learn more: wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov

2. La Leche League International (LLLI)

Peer-to-peer support from experienced breastfeeding moms. They host local and virtual meetups, offer phone/email support, and provide evidence-based guidance.

Find a group: llli.org

3. Baby Café USA

Weekly free drop-in breastfeeding support groups led by lactation consultants and peer counselors.

Find a location: babycafeusa.org

4. Office on Women’s Health (womenshealth.gov)

Offers digital breastfeeding guides, workplace rights information, pumping tips, and troubleshooting advice.

Explore: womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding

5. AWHONN Resources

Free e-guides and resources for breastfeeding through the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses.

More info: awhonn.org

6. Healthy Start & MIECHV Programs

These federally funded programs often include home visits from lactation consultants and provide equipment and support throughout pregnancy and postpartum.

Search by state: mchb.hrsa.gov

How to Access & Next Steps

Resource	How to Access
WIC	Apply through your local health department or WIC website
La Leche League	Use llli.org to find your local chapter or virtual group
Baby Café USA	Visit babycafeusa.org to locate a site near you
Women’s Health Guides	Download for free from womenshealth.gov
AWHONN	Search and download resources from awhonn.org
Healthy Start/MIECHV	Contact your local maternal health programs or search by ZIP code

Breastfeeding and pumping are deeply personal—and sometimes unpredictable—experiences. Whatever choice you make, just know you're not alone and there is help out there.