House Concurrent Resolution No. 56 designates May as Necrotizing Enterocolitis and Breastfeeding Awareness Month in Texas. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe condition primarily affecting premature infants, leading to high mortality rates and potential long-term health complications. The resolution highlights the importance of breastfeeding, particularly the use of breast milk, as a critical preventive measure against NEC. When a mother’s milk is unavailable, pasteurized donor human milk is recommended as a safe alternative, with organizations like the Mothers' Milk Bank of North Texas playing a vital role in providing access to this essential resource.

The resolution aims to raise public awareness about NEC and the benefits of breastfeeding, emphasizing the need for education on this life-threatening disease that poses significant risks to vulnerable infants. The designation will remain in effect until the 10th anniversary of the resolution's passage, underscoring the ongoing commitment to addressing NEC and promoting breastfeeding as a key strategy for improving infant health outcomes.