About The Quintessence Foundation
Organization Overview
The Quintessence Foundation, established in 1998, operates as a registered Canadian non-profit organization (Charitable number: 89941 1425 RR00001). The foundation concentrates on breastfeeding and milk banking education to health professionals and the public.
Mission & Focus
The organization supports programs that positively impact breastfeeding and human milk banking. Founded by individuals seeking to increase breastfeeding and donor milk banking information and support specifically within British Columbia communities.
"Human milk for human babies"
Key Initiatives
Breastfeeding Challenge
An annual event traditionally held the first Saturday in October. Launched in 2001 by Dr. Wah Wong as a Guinness World Record attempt, it evolved into a community-focused celebration where every breastfeeding baby at a registered site on the Challenge day is included in the 11am count.
Learn more about the Challenge →B.C. Women's Milk Bank Support
The foundation makes ongoing donations supporting the BC Women's Provincial Milk Bank and encourages support for Canada's four non-profit milk banks across Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal.
Educational Programs
Previously held collaborative hospital meetings under the "Catch the Spirit" banner. Supported online education development with BC health agencies. Currently funds breastfeeding courses through the "Making a Difference" program.
View available courses →Our History
We've been supporting breastfeeding since 2001, when the first Breastfeeding Challenge brought together 856 babies at 26 sites across British Columbia. Over the years, the Challenge has grown into an international movement, with participation from six countries and thousands of families celebrating and normalizing breastfeeding.