Although Black Maternal Health Week 2025 has passed, we’re still spotlighting a changemaker who’s turning advocacy into action for Black birthing people. Meet Charnise Littles, Founder and Executive Director of Birth & Milk Co., a Prince George’s County, Maryland-based company delivering culturally competent birth, lactation, and postpartum care to BIPOC families across the DMV and nationwide via telehealth.
Born out of the COVID-19 pandemic, Birth & Milk Co. was created in response to the urgent need for out-of-hospital maternal health care. Today, it offers a full spectrum of services—from doula support and lactation consultations to prenatal infant feeding classes and mentorship for future birth workers. Charnise and her team guide families through pregnancy, delivery, feeding, and weaning with nonjudgmental, community-rooted care.
What sets Birth & Milk Co. apart is its longevity of support and the deep connections formed with clients. “We get to know our families,” says Charnise, who has also been appointed to the Maryland Maternal Mortality Task Force—a role that shapes how she tailors education and preventative care.
As she fundraises to expand services into a dedicated center in Prince George’s County, Charnise is on a mission to reduce maternal mortality and increase infant wellness. Her advice to other Black women entrepreneurs? “Build your tribe and build your team.”
We honor the visionaries like Charnise Littles who are making birth joyful, informed, and safe—because thriving should be the norm, not the exception. Learn more about Birth & Milk Co. at www.BirthandMilkCo.com. Looking to patronize more Black Woman Owned businesses? Join our email list for the latest updates and BWO business news. Join Now or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, or Youtube for daily inspiration.
