Gulf Coast Lactation Community Center Celebrates Grand Opening with Ribbon Cutting, Big Latch On, & Free Family Resources

The Gulf Coast Lactation Community Center proudly celebrated its Grand Opening on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, with a joyful morning filled with community, connection, and family-centered support. The event was held at the new center, located at 25421 State Hwy. 181, Suite 101, Daphne, AL 36526, and was covered by Fox 10 News. Click here for coverage.

The celebration began with local mothers and babies participating in a Big Latch On, a tradition where breastfeeding mothers latch their babies at the same time. This powerful act symbolized unity and raised awareness of the importance of breastfeeding.

Following the Latch On, the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held in partnership with the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce. As the ribbon fell, families and supporters rejoiced in knowing that new, free and accessible resources for mothers, babies, and families are now available in our community.

“This center exists to make sure no family is left without support during one of life’s most important and challenging seasons,” said Scotty Thomson, RN, BSN, IBCLC, founder of the Gulf Coast Lactation Community Center.

“We’re here for every parent who needs guidance, encouragement, or expert help—from pregnancy through postpartum,” added Michelle Lloyd, Newborn Care Specialist, Postpartum Doula, and Bond with Baby Program Director.

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed tours of the new center, light refreshments, and an opportunity to connect, share stories, and celebrate together. The day was filled with excitement, gratitude, and a shared vision for healthier beginnings for Gulf Coast families.

Services for Families

The Gulf Coast Lactation Community Center is committed to breaking down barriers to maternal and newborn care. Families can now access:

• Free and low-cost lactation consultations

• Prenatal and postpartum support groups

• Newborn care and education classes

➡️ Register for services, click here!

More About Gulf Coast Lactation Community Center

The Gulf Coast Lactation Community Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving breastfeeding outcomes and ensuring equitable access to lactation care for families across the Gulf Coast. By removing barriers such as cost, insurance coverage, and limited local resources, the center ensures every parent receives the support they deserve.

Meet Our Providers

Scotty Thomson, RN, BSN, IBCLC – FounderA U.S. Navy veteran with more than 30 years of maternal-child care experience, Scotty has served families in both hospital and community settings, including Labor & Delivery. She founded Gulf Coast Lactation to ensure expert breastfeeding care and support is available to all families.

Michelle Lloyd – Newborn Care Specialist, Postpartum Doula, Bond with Baby Program DirectorWith over 30 years of supporting families, Michelle leads the Bond with Baby Program, offering newborn care classes, fourth trimester support, postpartum care, sleep coaching, and baby-wearing consultations. She is also a GroovaRoo and Zumbini instructor, bringing creativity and connection to her work with families.

This celebration marks only the beginning. We look forward to serving Gulf Coast families and growing alongside our community in the year ahead.