About Us

Our Story & Mission

Heart2Heartbeat Lactation & Wellness is a community-based lactation practice founded by Shenell Ford, dedicated to supporting families throughout their perinatal journey with compassion, expertise, and cultural sensitivity.

Shenell Ford

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

Our Purpose

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.

Upcoming Events

June 15, 2024

Community Breastfeeding Workshop

Join us for a free workshop on breastfeeding basics for new and expectant parents.

July 10, 2024

Maternal Wellness Support Group

A safe space for mothers to connect, share experiences, and receive support.