The Quezon City Human Milk Bank (QCHMB), in partnership with SM Cares, ramped up its life-saving efforts with a mass milk-letting drive at SM Fairview—mobilizing more mothers to donate breastmilk for vulnerable infants in need.
Held in line with Quezon City’s Women’s Month celebration, the initiative brought together lactating mothers, mallgoers, and regular donors to promote responsible breastfeeding and strengthen the city’s growing milk donation network.
Beyond donations, participants attended expert-led sessions on proper breastfeeding, maternal nutrition, and prenatal screening—ensuring mothers and caregivers are equipped to give infants the best possible start in life.
Mayor Joy Belmonte emphasized the importance of expanding access to safe, life-saving nutrition for babies.
“We value this partnership with SM Cares. Strengthening our referral network allows us to reach more mothers—and more importantly, more infants who depend on life-saving milk.
Breastmilk remains the best for babies. But when it’s not available, we make sure every child still receives the nutrition they need to grow healthy.”
Data from QCHMB’s 2025 report highlights the program’s far-reaching impact: 56% of pasteurized human milk was distributed to non-Quezon City residents, while 44% benefited QCitizens—underscoring the city’s critical role in supporting infants across Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
This expanding reach is supported by a landmark partnership sealed last year, which established dedicated milk depots in four SM Supermalls: SM Fairview, SM North EDSA, SM Novaliches, and SM Sta. Mesa. These accessible drop-off points make it easier for mothers to donate excess breastmilk and support infants in need.
Combined with regular milk-letting drives in health centers, these depots are helping safeguard the health of the most vulnerable—especially premature babies and those with medical conditions.
“We empower mothers who go above and beyond for their children. In Quezon City, we are committed to ensuring that every infant—regardless of circumstance—has the chance to grow strong and healthy,” the mayor added.
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