Every drop of milk processed at the North Austin Milk Bank plays a crucial role in the health and development of our tiniest patients. Launched with the hospital’s opening in February 2024, this state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to ensuring infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pavilion for Women receive the precise nourishment they need to thrive.
What makes the Austin Milk Bank unique
“Here in Austin, the Milk Bank is a central mixing area where we handle both breast milk and formula,” explained Bonishia Morris-Davis, the Milk Bank’s supervisor. “This is different from the Medical Center, where those two services are managed separately. I got my start as a Milk Bank tech there, so integrating formula mixing was new to me. However, it’s all about ensuring every baby receives the precise nutrition prescribed by their doctor.”
With advanced tools like a milk analyzer and a centrifuge, the team can tailor breast milk to meet specific needs, such as skimming fat for renal patients or analyzing milk for protein, carbohydrate and lactose content. “We’re privileged to have this technology in-house,” Bonishia said. “It allows us to be more precise with our recipes, so babies can grow and heal.”
In addition to its technical capabilities, the Milk Bank collaborates with the Mother’s Milk Bank of Austin to supply donor milk for babies who need it. “They’re amazing at delivering whatever we need, when we request it,” said Ashley Bolton, a Milk Bank technician who is new to Austin and to Texas Children’s.
A day in the life of a Milk Bank technician
Ashley joined the Austin Milk Bank team in October, shortly after graduating with a degree in neuroscience from UTSA in San Antonio. She was drawn to the role because it offered a chance to learn new skills, explore the clinical setting, and contribute meaningfully to the health of children at the start of their journey.
The role of a Milk Bank technician demands curiosity, precision and a commitment to teamwork. “In the morning, we get our patient list to see who we’re taking care of,” she explained. “We highlight which babies we have and check milk supplies, coordinating closely with nurses and lactation consultants. Collaboration is key; the 8:45 a.m. milk huddle with lactation consultants is pivotal to understanding where moms are at with their pumping and how we can best support them.”
Although Milk Bank technicians have minimal direct interaction with patients, their collaboration with lactation consultants, dietitians and nurses ensures that every baby’s nutritional needs are met. “We double-verify every single mix,” Ashley noted. “From the products we pull to the recipes we follow, two people check every detail to ensure accuracy. It’s a meticulous process, but it’s essential for the babies’ health.”
The people behind the process
The Austin Milk Bank team is small but mighty, consisting of just a handful of technicians and their supervisor, Bonishia. “We’re close-knit and collaborative,” Ashley shared. “Rachel, one of our techs, has been here since the Austin Milk Bank opened and brings valuable insights from her training at other campuses. Bonishia is a strong leader who encourages independence while being incredibly supportive. She’s always advocating for us and making sure we have the tools and knowledge we need to excel.”
This culture of support extends beyond the Milk Bank. “What I love about working at Texas Children’s is how open and collaborative everyone is,” Ashley said. “From leadership to the front line, people here genuinely care about improving processes and enhancing patient care.”
Why the Milk Bank matters
The impact of the Milk Bank’s work cannot be overstated. “What we do is medicine for these babies,” Ashley reflected. “It’s empowering knowing what milk—this beautiful, goddess nectar—can do for a baby. Knowing we play a part in nourishing children is incredibly rewarding.”
The Austin Milk Bank team exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and dedication that defines Texas Children’s. We are grateful for their commitment to making a lasting impact—one bottle at a time.
