The Ministry of Health authorized the transfer of R $ 40.7 million to qualify and expand the services provided by human milk banks in the country. 
The measure is part of the actions by World Breastfeeding Day, celebrated on Friday (1st), which marks the beginning of the Golden August, a campaign to raise awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding.
The funds will be allocated to the 226 units of the Brazilian Network of Human Milk Banks (RBLH-BR), according to Ordinance published yesterday in Official Gazette of the Union. Each unit will receive R $ 180 thousand in investments.
With the resources, the Banks will be able to purchase materials and perform essential services for their operation such as collection, processing, storage, quality control and distribution of human milk.
Also planning are actions of communication, social mobilization and direct assistance to families.
Inspired by the “gold time”, which symbolizes the first hour of the newborn with the mother, the August August campaign is held in 120 countries. This year, the Theme is prioritizing breastfeedingCreate sustainable support systems.
Campaign
August 1 and 7, the Ministry of Health holds a digital campaign to inform about the benefits of breastfeeding and mobilize society to create welcoming environments so that mothers can breastfeed longer.
The recommendation of the World Health Organization is that breastfeeding occurs exclusively up to 6 months and complemented up to 2 years or more.
The Brazilian Network of Human Milk Banks is an initiative of the Ministry of Health through the Fernandes Figueira Institute, of the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IFF/Fiocruz).
These units guarantee the offer of human milk for premature or low weight babies hospitalized in neonatal units, In addition to providing guidance and support for women in breastfeeding.
