Press Releases

Due to COVID-19, the Baby Café-Hamilton location was closed earlier this year.

The Baby Café’s purpose is to provide pregnant and new mothers the emotional and professional support they need to successfully breastfeed their infants. Mothers and babies meet in a private spot to share their concerns, talk openly with each other and receive professional advice from experts.

Breastfeeding has been linked to improved health outcomes for babies and moms and is linked to a reduction in infant mortality. Butler County has one of the highest rates of infant mortality in Ohio. This new Baby Café will help fulfill an identified need in the region for further expansion of breastfeeding support to a high-risk population.

More than 400 mothers and babies have participated in the West Chester Hospital Baby Café since the program was launched six years ago, and the hospital is pleased to offer this program to more mothers that may need this type of support.  

The program is free and confidential. Healthy snacks are provided, and mothers and babies may come as often or infrequently as they like.

In 2016, West Chester Hospital became the first hospital in Ohio to partner with the nonprofit Baby Café USA to provide this free support and education to pregnant and nursing mothers. The program was created by Heather Evans, BSN, RN, IBCLC, a board-certified lactation consultant.

“During Baby Café sessions, we strive to help each mom reach her personal goal and achieve longevity for breastfeeding. Our hope is that she will continue to breastfeed beyond the hospital setting,” Evans says.

National studies show there are high breastfeeding initiation rates among American mothers, but those rates plummet when infants reach six and 12 months old – suggesting that new mothers need more support to help continue breastfeeding. Baby Café provides free help from experts and support from peers in a welcoming environment.

Baby Café USA is a non-profit organization that coordinates a network of licensed drop-in Baby Cafés across the country. All locations follow standards set by the organization, collect statistical data and help reduce health disparities nationwide.