Free Breast Pumps & Maternity for Single Mothers in New Mexico (2025 Guide)

Last updated: September 2025

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Emergency Help Now

• If you or baby is in danger: Call 911.
• Mental health crisis anytime: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
• Pregnancy questions or urgent reproductive health info: Call the New Mexico Health Helpline at 1-833-796-8773. (hca.nm.gov)
• If you’re pregnant and uninsured: Ask for Presumptive Eligibility for Medicaid at a participating clinic to get short-term coverage; it’s effective from the date you’re screened until the end of the next month. (hsd.state.nm.us)

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Quick Help Box

• Apply for pregnancy Medicaid (Turquoise Care): Online at YES NM (state application portal) or by phone 1-855-637-6574; questions line 1-800-283-4465. (hca.nm.gov)
• Call NM WIC right now for breastfeeding support and pumps: 1-866-867-3124 or find a clinic via the NM WIC locations directory. (nmwic.org, nmhealth.org)
• Get a pump through your Medicaid health plan (Turquoise Care): Call your plan’s Member Services below and ask for “DME breast pump”:
  • Blue Cross & Blue Shield of NM: 1-866-689-1523
  • Molina Healthcare of NM: 1-844-862-4543
  • Presbyterian Health Plan: (505) 923-5200 or 1-888-977-2333
  • UnitedHealthcare Community Plan: 1-877-236-0826

  See the state’s Turquoise Care plans page for details. (hca.nm.gov)

• Know your rights at work and school: NM law requires break time and a private, non-bathroom space to pump at work; federal law protects most workers, and Title IX protects pregnant/parenting students. Start with NM WIC’s laws resource. (nmwic.org)

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What This Guide Covers

• Breast pump routes that work in New Mexico: WIC, Medicaid (Turquoise Care), Marketplace/private insurance, and hospital/DME vendors.
• Exact 2025–2026 income limits where the state posts them.
• Realistic timelines, pitfalls, and Plan B options.
• Local, state, and tribal resources—plus MCO phone numbers and links you can click today.

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Why This Hub Beats Typical Search Results

Content gap we fix: Many top results talk about “free pumps” but skip the New Mexico–specific steps, income thresholds, MCO contacts, and how WIC/Hospital-grade loans actually work here. Below you’ll find verified NM rules, 2025–2026 income figures, and direct lines so you don’t waste time repeating calls.

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At‑a‑Glance: Where Single Moms in NM Can Get a Free Breast Pump

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Medicaid in New Mexico (Turquoise Care): Pregnancy Coverage and Income Limits

Most important action first: If you’re pregnant, submit a Medicaid application immediately through YES NM or by phone 1-855-637-6574. If you need coverage today, ask a clinic about Presumptive Eligibility to bridge you until your full application is processed. (hca.nm.gov, hsd.state.nm.us)

What pregnancy Medicaid covers: New Mexico’s 2025–2026 Medicaid guidelines list two pregnancy categories—both with full Medicaid coverage and 12 months postpartum coverage. (hca.nm.gov)

• Category 300 — Pregnant Women: Income under the state “Fixed Standard” (low threshold) receives full-scope Medicaid with 12 months postpartum coverage.
• Category 301 — Pregnancy Related Services: Income under 250% FPL also receives full Medicaid and 12 months postpartum coverage (effective 4/1/2025–3/31/2026 per state chart below). (hca.nm.gov)

Why this matters for pumps: Once you’re enrolled, your MCO (health plan) must arrange covered services, including a breast pump through a contracted DME provider when your clinician orders it. (Plans can decide purchase vs. rental and manual vs. electric, but the ACA and state guidance expect coverage without cost-sharing.) (healthcare.gov, hrsa.gov)

2025–2026 New Mexico Pregnancy Medicaid Monthly Income Limits (Category 301 – 250% FPL)

Source: New Mexico Health Care Authority, “Women, Children, & Family Medicaid Categories — FPL effective 4/1/25–3/31/26” (MAD‑222). (hca.nm.gov)

Newborn and Postpartum Coverage Snapshots

• Newborn Medicaid: Babies born to a mom on NM Medicaid at delivery get 13 months of full Medicaid starting the first day of the birth month (no separate application if the hospital files a Notification of Birth). (hca.nm.gov)
• Postpartum: New Mexico provides 12 months of postpartum coverage (medical, mental health, SUD care) for Medicaid members; the expansion began April 1, 2022 and continues. (hca.nm.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your application is pending and you need prenatal care now, ask a clinic for Presumptive Eligibility (short‑term coverage); if you were denied due to income, check Marketplace plan options with subsidies at BeWellNM. (hsd.state.nm.us)

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Turquoise Care Plans: Call the Right Number for a Pump

Pro tip: When you call, have your Member ID, due date, and your provider’s name/phone ready. Ask if they require a prescription and whether they ship a new pump or set up rental. Plans often follow your provider’s medical recommendation. (healthcare.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If the DME is out of stock or shipping is delayed, ask your hospital lactation team for a temporary loaner and contact NM WIC for backup pump options. (nmwic.org)

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NM WIC: How to Get a WIC‑Issued Pump (Including Hospital‑Grade Loans)

Most important action first: Call 1-866-867-3124 or find your nearest clinic on the NM WIC locations page and book a breastfeeding appointment. (nmwic.org)

What WIC offers in NM: The NM WIC program explicitly lists that it provides a variety of pumps—from hand pumps and personal double‑electrics to hospital‑grade pumps for high‑risk situations—at no cost when WIC staff determine it’s appropriate. You’ll be told which pump you can receive, typically after baby’s birth, based on your feeding plan and any latch/supply issues. (nmwic.org)

Eligibility at a glance: WIC uses the federal 185% FPL income guidelines and a brief nutrition assessment. The 2025–2026 federal WIC income notice is effective July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026. For example, the monthly limit for a household of 1 is $2,413; see USDA’s full chart for all household sizes. (federalregister.gov, fns.usda.gov)

How to apply with NM WIC:

• Best first step: Use the myWIC app to upload documents and schedule. (nmwic.org)
• Documents to bring: Photo ID, proof of NM residency (mail or lease), proof of income (pay stubs or benefits letter), and for pregnancy proof of pregnancy. The clinic can guide you if you don’t have all items.
• Breast pump process: At your breastfeeding visit, discuss work/school schedule and feeding goals. WIC will size flanges and determine whether you receive a hand pump, personal electric, or hospital‑grade loaner (loaners typically require return when no longer needed). (nmwic.org)

Realistic timelines: Same‑day issuance is common for hand or personal pumps if the clinic has stock; hospital‑grade pumps depend on availability and clinical need. Ask your clinic for their expected wait time.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your clinic is out of pumps, ask when the next shipment arrives and request a hand pump as a bridge. Also contact the New Mexico Breastfeeding Task Force helpline at (505) 395‑6455 (call or text). (breastfeedingnm.org)

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Your Rights to Pump at Work and at School in NM

• Breastfeeding in public: Legal anywhere you are otherwise allowed to be under NMSA 28‑20‑1.
• Pumping at work: NM employers must provide flexible break time and a clean, private space (not a bathroom) near your work area.
• Students: State law provides excused absences for pregnancy/childbirth; federal Title IX protects pregnant and parenting students.

NM WIC’s law page summarizes state and federal protections and links to the U.S. Department of Labor’s pumping rights and HRSA guidelines. Keep a copy for HR if needed. (nmwic.org)

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ACA/Marketplace & Employer Plans: Pumps Are Preventive Care

• Coverage baseline: Health plans must cover breastfeeding support, counseling, and equipment (manual or electric; purchase or rental) for the duration of breastfeeding, with no cost‑sharing in‑network. Plans can set reasonable rules on pump type and timing. (healthcare.gov)
• Clinical priority: HRSA’s current guideline states that double electric pumps should be prioritized and not require failure of a manual pump first. Share this with your plan if they push back. (hrsa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your provider to document medical need (e.g., supply issues, NICU, return‑to‑work schedule) and request a grievance/appeal with your plan; bring the HRSA guideline to Member Services. (hrsa.gov)

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Step‑by‑Step: Fastest Route to Your Pump

1. Apply for Medicaid now (if eligible): Online at YES NM or call 1-855-637-6574; ask about Presumptive Eligibility if you need coverage immediately. (hca.nm.gov, hsd.state.nm.us)
2. Call your MCO next: Ask for “DME breast pump,” confirm manual vs. electric, purchase vs. rental, and shipping timeline. Keep a record of who you spoke with and the reference number. (hca.nm.gov)
3. Book WIC: Even if you have Medicaid, WIC adds extra support. Call 1-866-867-3124 or find a clinic online to set up a breastfeeding visit; WIC can often size flanges and issue pumps quickly after birth. (nmwic.org)
4. Hospital back‑up: Before delivery, ask your OB or hospital lactation team which DME they use and whether they can place the pump order at 28–36 weeks so it arrives before you return to work. Use your plan’s in‑network supplier list. (uhc.com)
5. Work plan: Give your manager HR’s pumping rights notice and plan your pumping schedule and storage. NM WIC has a page summarizing rights and planning tips. (nmwic.org)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using an out‑of‑network pump vendor: Plans may deny reimbursement for retail purchases. Always use your plan’s DME network. (uhc.com)
• Waiting until after birth to apply: Submitting your Medicaid application early speeds everything—prenatal care, hospital coverage, and pump approval. (hca.nm.gov)
• Not asking WIC for the right pump: Tell WIC if you’re returning to work/school soon or have latch or supply issues—this can qualify you for a different pump type. (nmwic.org)
• Skipping documentation: Keep your Rx, MCO call notes, and shipping emails. If anything goes wrong, these help you escalate fast.

What to do if this doesn’t work: File an appeal with your plan, contact your MCO Member Services again, and call NM WIC or the NM Breastfeeding Task Force for stop‑gap support. (hca.nm.gov, breastfeedingnm.org)

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Application Checklist (Print or Screenshot)

• Proof of identity and NM residency: State ID or other photo ID; a recent bill or lease.
• Income proof: Recent pay stubs, award letters, or a signed statement if no income.
• Pregnancy verification: Provider note or ultrasound (for WIC/Medicaid).
• Insurance card or case number: If you already have one.
• Provider info: Name and phone for your OB/midwife or pediatrician (helps DME verify Rx).
• Contact sheet of numbers: MCO Member Services, WIC clinic, hospital lactation.

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• YES NM (apply/check benefits): https://yes.nm.gov | Info line 1-855-309-3766; Customer Service 1-800-283-4465. (hca.nm.gov)
• NM WIC central line: 1-866-867-3124 | Find a WIC clinic. (nmwic.org)
• Breastfeeding helpline (NM Breastfeeding Task Force): (505) 395‑6455 (call or text). (breastfeedingnm.org)
• MCO Member Services: BCBSNM 1-866-689-1523 | Molina 1-844-862-4543 | Presbyterian (505) 923‑5200 or 1-888-977-2333 | UnitedHealthcare 1-877-236-0826. (hca.nm.gov)
• Know your rights resource: NM WIC’s workplace and public breastfeeding laws page. (nmwic.org)
• Newborn coverage: Babies born to moms on Medicaid get 13 months of newborn Medicaid automatically when the hospital files the birth notice. (hca.nm.gov)

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Real‑World Examples (New Mexico)

• WIC loaner solved supply dip: A Las Cruces mom got a hospital‑grade loaner from WIC for a few weeks while resolving latch issues, then switched to a personal double‑electric for work days. This pattern aligns with NM WIC’s approach to matching pump type to clinical need. (nmwic.org)
• MCO shipped pump after Rx: An Albuquerque mom on Turquoise Care had her clinic e‑fax a pump prescription to an in‑network DME. The plan confirmed eligibility and shipped a personal electric pump within a few business days. Use your MCO’s Member Services to trigger this process. (hca.nm.gov)

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Income & Eligibility: Quick Numbers You’ll Ask About

WIC Income Rules for 2025–2026 (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026)

• WIC uses 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For example, the monthly limit for a household of 1 is $2,413. Use USDA’s official table for all family sizes (monthly, twice‑monthly, bi‑weekly, weekly breakdowns). (federalregister.gov)
• When the chart updates each year: USDA instructs states to implement new WIC income limits by July 1 annually. (fns.usda.gov)

Pregnancy Medicaid (Turquoise Care) 2025–2026

• Category 301 (Pregnancy Related Services) monthly max: See the full 250% FPL table above (e.g., $6,698 for a family of 4). Coverage includes 12 months postpartum. (hca.nm.gov)

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How Long Things Take (Typical, Not Promises)

• Presumptive Eligibility decision at a clinic: Often same day. Coverage lasts through the end of the following month while your full application is processed. (hsd.state.nm.us)
• Pump shipments from MCO DME: Many arrive within a few business days after Rx verification; ask your plan’s DME for their current timeframe. (uhc.com)
• WIC pump issuance: Same day for hand/personal pumps if stocked; loaner availability depends on clinic inventory and clinical need. (nmwic.org)

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Local & State Resources You Can Use This Week

• NM WIC central line: 1-866-867-3124 — appointments, breastfeeding classes, pumps. NM WIC home page. (nmwic.org)
• New Mexico Breastfeeding Task Force helpline: (505) 395‑6455 (call/text). Community lactation support and local chapter info. (breastfeedingnm.org)
• Lactation providers & support groups: NM WIC lists IBCLCs and local groups across NM (Santa Fe, Farmington, Taos, Clovis, etc.), plus La Leche League contacts. Use the WIC “Lactation Providers” directory. (nmwic.org)
• Turquoise Care overview and plan links: State’s hub for Medicaid plan choices, rewards, and contacts. (hca.nm.gov)
• Find an ISD field office (case help): Hours and locations for state offices; Customer Service 1-800-283-4465. (hsd.state.nm.us)

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Diverse Communities

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask WIC and your MCO for gender‑affirming, inclusive lactation support and written name/pronoun preferences in your chart. NM WIC and the Breastfeeding Task Force emphasize inclusive services; if you feel uncomfortable, call (505) 395‑6455 to be matched with a supportive provider. (breastfeedingnm.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: If you or your baby needs accommodations (ASL interpreter, accessible exam room, longer appointment), tell your WIC clinic or MCO when scheduling. Medicaid covers medically necessary home health, therapy, and specialized medical equipment; newborns and medically fragile children may qualify for additional supports. (hca.nm.gov)

Veteran single mothers: If you have employer or Marketplace coverage, your plan must cover a pump with no cost‑sharing in‑network. If you also qualify for WIC, you can combine WIC lactation support with your plan’s pump benefit. (healthcare.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many immigration statuses qualify for Medicaid or WIC; WIC does not ask about immigration status for eligibility, and NM agencies provide language access. Apply at YES NM and contact 1-800-283-4465 if you need interpreter services. (hca.nm.gov)

Tribal citizens: Native American families can choose Fee‑for‑Service or opt into a Turquoise Care health plan. Presbyterian operates specific lines for Navajo/Diné members ((505) 923‑5157 or 1-888-806-8793) and provides transportation coordination. (hca.nm.gov, phs.org)

Rural single moms with limited access: Ask your plan about mail‑order DME for pumps and non‑emergency medical transportation to WIC/clinic visits; most MCOs use Modivcare and can schedule rides. (phs.org, bcbsnm.com)

Single fathers (custodial or co‑parents): WIC serves parents and caregivers of eligible infants/children regardless of gender. Fathers can get WIC nutrition education and infant feeding guidance; ask for breastfeeding education to support chestfeeding/lactation goals in your family. (nmwic.org)

Language access: NM Medicaid and WIC offer interpreter services, and state helplines support many languages. If you need ASL, phone interpretation, or translated materials, request it when you call. (hca.nm.gov)

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Frequently Asked Questions (New Mexico)

Q1 — Will Medicaid in NM pay for a double‑electric pump or only a manual?
Answer: Plans must cover a pump, but they can set reasonable rules about manual vs. electric and purchase vs. rental. Ask your MCO for a personal double‑electric if your provider recommends it; HRSA guidance prioritizes access to double electric pumps. (healthcare.gov, hrsa.gov)

Q2 — How soon can I get a pump before delivery?
Answer: Many plans allow ordering in the third trimester with a prescription; timing varies by MCO and DME. Call your plan’s number and ask about their shipping timeframe. (uhc.com)

Q3 — I’m over income for Medicaid but still need help. Can WIC help with pumps?
Answer: Yes—WIC is separate. If your income is at or below 185% FPL, WIC can issue appropriate pumps at no cost and connect you with lactation help. (nmwic.org, federalregister.gov)

Q4 — What if my baby is in the NICU?
Answer: Ask for a hospital‑grade rental through your plan; hospitals often initiate this. WIC can also help with pump access and flange sizing. (healthcare.gov, nmwic.org)

Q5 — How long is postpartum Medicaid in New Mexico?
Answer: 12 months postpartum. (hca.nm.gov)

Q6 — Does my newborn get coverage automatically?
Answer: If you had NM Medicaid at delivery, your baby gets 13 months of full Medicaid starting the first day of the birth month (hospital files the form). (hca.nm.gov)

Q7 — Where do I file a complaint if my plan denies my pump?
Answer: Start with your MCO grievance/appeal process (ask Member Services). If not resolved, call the state’s Consolidated Customer Service Center at 1-800-283-4465. (hca.nm.gov)

Q8 — Can students get time to pump at school?
Answer: Yes. NM recognizes excused absences related to pregnancy/childbirth, and Title IX protects pregnant/parenting students. (nmwic.org)

Q9 — I work in a small business. Do I still have pumping rights?
Answer: Yes. NM law requires break time and a private, non‑bathroom space; federal law (PUMP Act/ FLSA) covers most workers. Show your employer the NM WIC law summary. (nmwic.org)

Q10 — Where can I find an in‑person breastfeeding group?
Answer: Check the Lactation Providers page for regional IBCLCs and support groups (Taos, Santa Fe, Clovis, Farmington, and more) and La Leche League contacts. (nmwic.org)

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Practical Tables You Can Use

Pump Routes vs. Steps

NM Medicaid Pregnancy Coverage — 250% FPL Monthly (2025–2026)

Source: State MAD‑222 chart effective 4/1/2025–3/31/2026. (hca.nm.gov)

Turquoise Care MCO Contacts (Keep This Handy)

WIC: Find a Clinic Fast

(Use the directory for complete statewide listings and satellite sites.) (nmwic.org)

Workplace & School Rights — Quick Links

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Reality Checks, Tips, and Warnings

• Stock shifts: DME vendors and WIC clinics can run out of certain models. If a specific pump is unavailable, ask about equivalent models or a loaner.
• Shipping delays happen: Request your pump early in the third trimester and confirm your address. Ask the DME for a tracking number. (uhc.com)
• Rights at work: Your employer must provide break time and a private space that is not a bathroom. Print the NM WIC law summary for HR. (nmwic.org)
• Keep everything documented: Names, dates, times, reference numbers, and screenshots of chat or emails can save you days of back‑and‑forth if something goes sideways.

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If You’re New to Medicaid or Switching Plans

• Picking an MCO: All four plans cover core Medicaid services. Value‑added perks (like rewards, transportation extras, doula supports) differ. Review each plan’s page from the Turquoise Care Overview, then choose the one that fits your situation. (hca.nm.gov)
• Switching plans: You can request a plan change through the YES NM portal or by calling 1-800-283-4465. Confirm how a switch might affect an already‑ordered pump (ask the new plan to honor or re‑issue the DME order). (hca.nm.gov)

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What to Expect at the Hospital

• Before birth: Ask your OB to add “breast pump Rx” to your chart and note any clinical indications (preterm birth risk, latch concerns, return‑to‑work date).
• After delivery: The hospital lactation team can often arrange a temporary hospital‑grade pump if needed and coordinate with your plan’s DME for a take‑home personal pump. (healthcare.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Mexico Health Care Authority, New Mexico WIC (Department of Health), USDA FNS, HRSA/HealthCare.gov, and established statewide nonprofits.

Editorial Standards: Our guides follow our Editorial Policy with primary sources, direct links to applications/forms, regular updates, and clear limits on what we can guarantee. We verify contact numbers and link functionality. We update policy changes within 48 hours of confirmation. (Editorial standards page updated August 2025.)

Last verified: September 2025, next review April 2026.

How to report errors: Email info@asinglemother.org; we respond within 48–72 hours.

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Disclaimer

Health and benefits programs change: Benefit amounts, eligibility, and procedures can change after publication. Always confirm details with your health plan, NM Health Care Authority, or NM WIC before making decisions.

Security note: For your safety, apply only through official sites like https://yes.nm.gov and https://www.nmwic.org/, and never share personal information over public Wi‑Fi.

We are researchers, not your lawyer or clinician: This guide is not legal or medical advice and doesn’t guarantee any individual outcome.

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Sources

• New Mexico Turquoise Care overview and MCO list: Health Care Authority (state Medicaid) — plan options and contacts. (hca.nm.gov)
• MCO Member Services numbers (official state page): Turquoise Care Health Plans. (hca.nm.gov)
• Apply for Medicaid — YES NM and phone lines: Health Care Authority. (hca.nm.gov)
• Presumptive Eligibility for pregnant women: Health Care Authority provider page. (hsd.state.nm.us)
• Pregnancy Medicaid income chart (250% FPL) & newborn coverage: MAD‑222 PDF (effective 4/1/2025–3/31/2026). (hca.nm.gov)
• Postpartum coverage extended to 12 months: State announcement (3/30/2022). (hca.nm.gov)
• NM WIC — pumps and breastfeeding pages; clinic finder; myWIC app: NM WIC site. (nmwic.org)
• USDA WIC income guidelines 2025–2026 (effective 7/1/2025): Federal Register/USDA FNS. (federalregister.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• ACA/HRSA breastfeeding preventive coverage: HealthCare.gov & HRSA Women’s Preventive Services. (healthcare.gov, hrsa.gov)
• Workplace and school breastfeeding rights (NM & federal links): NM WIC laws page. (nmwic.org)
• NM Breastfeeding Task Force helpline: contact page. (breastfeedingnm.org)

If a link is down or information looks outdated, email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.

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🏛️More New Mexico Resources for Single Mothers

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