ABOUT US

About Us

La Leche League of Portland, Maine is a nonprofit, nonsectarian organization dedicated to providing education, information, support and encouragement to those interested in feeding their babies human milk. Whether you are breastfeeding, chestfeeding, feeding donor milk, or anywhere in between, we are here to support you. La Leche League of Portland, Maine is committed to diversity and inclusion. We support all breastfeeding, chestfeeding, and human milk feeding families, inclusive of their race, ethnicity, immigration status, national origin, creed, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, family structure, primary language, ability, or socio-economic status.

Our Leaders

Our Leaders are accredited through La Leche League International. They are all committed to supporting families in the Portland area with their breastfeeding, chestfeeding, and human milk feeding journeys. Click here to contact to one of our Leaders.

Elin Shartar

Elin has lived in Portland since the fall of 2015. She and her husband Brook have two children, Salinger (‘14), Juniper (‘17), and a rescue dog named Ruby. Elin became interested in breastfeeding advocacy when her older sister had her first baby and received critical support from a La Leche League leader, which truly saved her breastfeeding relationship. Elin loves to spend time with her family, especially at the beach, walk with Ruby in the woods, cook and eat good food, and knit sweaters.

Catherine Whittemore

Coming soon.

Mary Bloch

Mary and her husband, Paul, moved to Maine in 2000 and are so delighted to be raising their two children, EJ ('01) and Ellen ('09) in South Portland. When she was pregnant with EJ, Mary’s doula encouraged her to attend the Portland La Leche League meeting. She is frequently heard saying that La Leche League saved her breastfeeding relationship! Experiencing mother-to-mother support first hand at the monthly meetings, she knew that she wanted to give back and became a Leader in 2005. She credits La Leche League for helping her become the mother that her children needed. Mary and her family have 8 bikes and are avid bicyclists. They are beginning to plan their Maine to Florida bike ride! If you can’t find her on her bike, you might find her swimming in the ocean (even in the winter months – ok so it’s a bi-monthly dip and not a swim!), Kezar Lake, or Wild River. Mary also enjoys yoga, being in nature, and creating deep connection with family, friends, and her community.

Rachel Ackoff

Rachel is the mom of a toddler named Miriam and a kindergartner named Oz. She has been through tongue-ties, NICU stays, and other bumps on her breastfeeding journey, but it's still been the most bliss she's experienced so far in life. When she's not breastfeeding, you can find Rachel campaigning at Maine People’s Alliance, swimming at the Y, or walking in the woods.

La Leche League History