Families from across Hampton Roads are invited to gather at Old Dominion University’s Webb Center and Kaufman Mall on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, for the 5th Annual Breastfeeding Bash, a community celebration and resource fair in honor of National Breastfeeding Month.
This rain-or-shine event will feature both indoor and outdoor activities, ensuring a welcoming and fun experience for all attendees.
Hosted by 757Breastfeeds, the Breastfeeding Bash is a free, family-friendly event focused on education, empowerment and fun. 757Breastfeeds is an initiative of the Consortium for Infant and Child Health (CINCH), part of Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University.
From 9 a.m. to noon, guests can enjoy food, family activities, giveaways and raffles, including a chance to win a $100 gift card. Attendees also can connect with more than 50 vendors offering resources and support for maternal and infant health, including lactation consultants, doulas and community care organizations.
“This event is about celebrating families while connecting them to the people and services that make breastfeeding more possible, more supported and more sustainable,” said Sara Rothenberg, project director of 757Breastfeeds. “Whether you’re pregnant, pumping, breastfeeding, combo-feeding or just there to support a loved one, you’re welcome here.”
Each year, the Breastfeeding Bash brings together hundreds of attendees and community partners. More than 300 participants are expected this year. For organizers, the event reflects a strong commitment to community health and service, especially in ensuring access to maternal and child health resources.
The Broader Impact of Breastfeeding
Observed annually in August, National Breastfeeding Month raises awareness about the life-long benefits of breastfeeding for babies, mothers and society at large.
“Human milk is a complex, species-specific elixir that plays a vital role in infant and child development,” said Ashlynn Baker, director of The King’s Daughters Milk Bank at CHKD. “With its potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, it serves not only as nourishment, but also as medicine. Even in small amounts, it can significantly improve health.”
Despite these well-documented benefits, not all families have breastfeeding support. Initiatives such as 757Breastfeeds work to bridge those gaps. Through events and year-round outreach and education, these initiatives aim to make breastfeeding a realistic choice for all families.
“We honor every parent’s feeding journey,” said Leah Addo-Brown, project coordinator of 757Breastfeeds. “Our goal is to ensure that those who want to breastfeed have the tools, resources and feel empowered to do so.”
From healthcare providers and employers to neighbors and policymakers, all sectors of society have a role to play in supporting breastfeeding.
“Minus 9 to 5 has been partnering with 757Breastfeeds for years,” said Beth Parker, associate director of Minus 9 to 5. “It’s exciting to watch this community event grow in magnitude each year. Not only is it an opportunity for families to gain support and education around maternal health and breastfeeding, but it’s also a wonderful opportunity for providers, educators and community organizations to come together in support of their clients.”
For more information, contact Leah Addo-Brown at laddobro@odu.edu. Registration is not required to attend, but those who RSVP in advance will be entered into the prize raffle.
