WHO WE ARE

At San Diego Lactation Equity Alliance (SDLEA), our mission is to break down barriers and create a more equitable support for chest/breastfeeding families in San Diego County. We’re dedicated to reducing socioeconomic and racial disparities in lactation support by connecting marginalized communities—like BIPOC individuals and low-income families—with culturally congruent lactation providers.

With a clear vision for the future, we’ve mapped out a 3-year strategic plan to expand our reach and deepen our impact. Our goals are simple but powerful:

1. Increase diversity in the lactation field by supporting more lactation consultants and clinicians from underrepresented backgrounds.

2. Provide accessible, low-barrier lactation care and spaces to meet the unique needs of our community.

3. Eliminate chest/breastfeeding deserts across San Diego Countys—with a focus on Southeast San Diego—ensuring every family has access to the support they deserve.

We're committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every parent can thrive.

DOWNLOAD OUR IMPACT REPORT

Our Story

SDLEA exists to address the stark healthcare disparities in chest/breastfeeding support. For too long, access to qualified lactation care has been limited to those who can afford it, leaving families in underserved communities—particularly BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People pf Color) and low-income families—without crucial support.

Since its original inception (2016), SDLEA has provided over 3,200 free or low-cost lactation consultations, helping to bridge this gap. Our alliance partners with BIPOC lactation consultants to ensure culturally congruent--not just competent--care for the BIPOC community.

In 2021, SDLEA launched a scholarship fund to support and train BIPOC individuals pursuing careers in lactation. With 50+ scholarships awarded, this initiative aims to diversify the field and reshape lactation support in San Diego County.