Meet Our Founder
Shenell Ford, BS, IBCLC, CPE is the visionary behind Heart2Heartbeat Lactation & Wellness
Shenell Ford BS, IBCLC, CPE is founder of the community based lactation practice, Heart2Heartbeat Lactation & Wellness, in Springfield Ma. Her greatest joy are her sons, Jeyceir and Jezari. She is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Certified Perinatal Educator, and Childbirth Educator Apprentice, and overall lover of lactation.
Shenell has the honor of being an Inaugural National Birth Justice Fellow through Vital Village Network. She finds joy in serving on various boards and committees including the Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition Board of Directors, US Breastfeeding Committee CRASH, Co-Chair of the Springfield DHHS Maternal Child Health Commission and Steering Committee Member of BEJMA (Birth Equity and Justice Massachusetts).
Shenell continues to lead lactation advocacy efforts in Springfield including annual National Breastfeeding Month, Black Breastfeeding Week, and Black Maternal Health Week celebrations, in collaboration with the Mayors office and many community partners. In June 2023, Shenell was recognized as one of Masslive's Emerging Black Leaders and in April 2024, received the Springfield DHHS Commissioners Award for her efforts in advancing lactation.
She is an inspired and fiercely passionate advocate for prenatal and lactating families. Shenell is committed to increasing the diversity of and equitable access to perinatal education and support in her community and beyond.
Award-Winning Advocate
Certified Educator
Passionate Leader
Community Builder
Mission & Values
Guided by our commitment to equity, compassion, and excellence in perinatal care
Our Mission
Heart2Heartbeat Lactation & Wellness is dedicated to increasing equitable access to perinatal education and support, with a focus on serving Black and underrepresented families in our community. We strive to empower families with knowledge, resources, and compassionate care throughout their perinatal journey.
Through advocacy, education, and direct support, we work to address disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes and promote birth equity and justice for all families.
Our Values
Compassion
We provide care with empathy, understanding, and respect for each family's unique journey.
Equity
We are committed to addressing disparities and ensuring all families have access to quality perinatal support.
Education
We believe in the power of knowledge to empower families to make informed decisions.
Excellence
We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care based on evidence and best practices.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Support our mission to provide equitable access to perinatal education and lactation support in our community. Your contribution helps us reach more families and create lasting impact.