Building a Region Where Breastfeeding Is the Norm
The Inland Empire Breastfeeding Coalition (IEBfC) is setting the standard for what regional collaboration, training, and advocacy can achieve. With a mission to make breastfeeding the norm across San Bernardino and Riverside counties, this coalition brings together hospitals, public health agencies, lactation professionals, and community partners to fill critical gaps in care and elevate breastfeeding equity across the Inland Empire.
At the heart of their work is the LATCH On IE™ initiative—a hands-on, skills-based lactation training program developed in partnership with First 5 San Bernardino and the Inland Empire Health Plan. Since 2023, LATCH On IE has trained 350 nurses from 23 hospitals through immersive education rooted in clinical best practices and cultural humility. RNs leave the program ready to apply what they’ve learned directly to bedside care, with one participant sharing:
“I haven’t had a lactation course in 10 years. I’ve learned so much and I’m excited to implement everything into practice!”
Through quarterly hospital collaboratives, IEBfC fosters peer learning and shared accountability to advance Baby-Friendly policies and compliance with SB 402, while its Black Breastfeeding Task Force—launched in 2023—offers aspiring and current Black lactation professionals a vital space for connection, peer support, case studies, and scholarship access.
Their vision doesn’t stop with clinical staff. In 2026, the coalition will expand its reach with the launch of a Community Breastfeeding Educators course—training doulas, prenatal health workers, PHNs, and even dads to support lactation across the region.
This regional coalition’s ability to align diverse stakeholders—from First 5 to WIC to the UC Health Milk Bank—has created a truly integrated ecosystem of lactation support. With 75 individual members and 6 corporate members, IEBfC is a growing force for change.
Through smart strategy, community-rooted leadership, and unwavering commitment to equity, the Inland Empire Breastfeeding Coalition is making its mission a reality—ensuring that breastfeeding is supported, celebrated, and sustained across the Inland Empire.