Stronger Together: FIERCE Advocates Partners with Breast Friends for Culturally Affirming Lactation Support
At FIERCE Advocates, we believe that every family deserves support that honors their culture, lived experience, and journey through pregnancy and parenthood. That is why we are proud to announce our new partnership with Breast Friends Lactation Support Services, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing breastfeeding access, education, and support for Black and Brown families in the Bay Area.
This collaboration is rooted in a shared commitment to birth equity. Both FIERCE and Breast Friends understand that Black and Brown birthing families often face systemic barriers that can make pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experiences unnecessarily stressful and isolating.
Together, we are working to ensure families have access to culturally aligned, holistic support from pregnancy through postpartum.
Expanding Support for Families
Through this partnership, FIERCE’s CoCo Doulas program can now offer in-house lactation support that meets families where they are. Our doulas, who provide no-cost prenatal, birth, and postpartum support, can now connect families with Breast Friends’ culturally competent breastfeeding education and problem-solving.
Families can receive guidance in a space that is affirming and understanding, with professionals who look like them and share their experiences.
Whether it’s a scheduled consultation or a group session, families can expect a warm environment where they are seen and supported without judgment.
This is about more than breastfeeding. It is about building confidence, reclaiming parenting knowledge, and nurturing thriving babies and families.
Reclaiming Knowledge and Building Community
Black and Brown communities have long faced health disparities due to systemic racism, including higher rates of maternal and infant complications. Breastfeeding can be a natural safety net, offering protection against some of these disparities. Yet, many families have not had access to culturally relevant lactation care or peer support. This partnership is a step toward rebuilding that knowledge, supporting parents, and fostering community-led care that celebrates heritage and wellness.
We are thrilled to share a short interview with Brandi Gates Burgess, IBCLC and founder of Breast Friends Lactation Support Services. Brandi joined us at FIERCE’s 20th Anniversary Block Party to meet the community and share resources. In the video, she talks about the importance of culturally grounded lactation support and her vision for empowering families through breastfeeding education and community connection.
Why This Matters
This collaboration is an opportunity for families in Contra Costa County to experience care that reflects their needs, identities, and traditions. It is a celebration of community, a commitment to health equity, and an investment in the next generation. By joining forces, FIERCE and Breast Friends are making it possible for more parents to feel confident, supported, and empowered in their parenting and feeding journeys.
Families interested in learning more can visit our websites or contact us directly to schedule a consultation or join a support group. Together, we are building a healthier, stronger, and more resilient community for Black and Brown families.
Support Families Like These
Every parent deserves care that honors their culture and empowers them on their journey. Your support helps FIERCE Advocates provide no-cost doula services, culturally aligned lactation support, and programs that strengthen Black and Brown families in Contra Costa County.
Join us in building a healthier, stronger community by helping families thrive.
