San Benito High School is in the process of opening a second lactation room for nursing mothers on staff and is asking for donations.
Superintendent John Perales sent the request to parents and community members, saying, “We currently only have one room and this will give us an additional room on the other side of campus. We could really use some donations and they would be very much appreciated. If you can help, please drop off any of these items in the Superintendent’s Office on the second floor of the SBHS admin building,” at 1220 Monterey St. in Hollister.
Perales said the following items are needed:
- Disposable nursing pads
- Cleansing wipes for pumps
- Breast milk storage bags
- Paper towels and Kleenex
- Basic household cleaner (Windex with vinegar or something natural)
English teacher Rebecca Conklin, who led the effort to have the district set aside space for a lactation room in the spring of 2013 with donations from staff members, called the planned opening of a second room “another positive direction in supporting staff and it is much appreciated.”
Elizabeth Martinez of the San Benito High School Migrant Education Progam said the second lactation room should be ready within a couple of weeks. She said the district will provide most of what will be needed for the room, including a mini refrigerator, heater, fan, new carpet, and a fresh coat of paint.
“We would like to make both rooms as welcoming and comfortable as possible,” Martinez said.