Frequently Asked Questions

Next Generation Family Services (NGFS) is a nonprofit organization serving families in the Greater Lansing area with lactation support, parenting education, and infant safety services. Our mission is to provide equitable access to resources and support that empower and educate families during pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenting.

We serve pregnant people, infants, parents, caregivers, and families—especially those who experience barriers to accessing quality maternal and infant support. Services are available to families of all backgrounds.

We are based in the Greater Lansing area and offer services in-clinic, virtually, and in families’ homes, depending on the service.

We provide breastfeeding and chestfeeding support in Greater Lansing through in-clinic, virtual, and in-home appointments with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

No referral is required to schedule a lactation appointment.

You can schedule a visit during pregnancy (prenatal lactation education) or anytime after birth if you have questions, concerns, or need hands-on support.

You can bring whatever you would like to feel comfortable! We do have breastfeeding pillows at the office but if you prefer to bring your own, you can. If you are pumping I recommend bringing your pump. If you are typically bottle feeding, I would recommend bringing a bottle just in case we need to feed baby during the appointment.

We recommend to bring baby hungry and ready to eat for your appointment. Write down any questions you have so that we can answer all your questions while we are together.

We currently accept Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Priority, Cigna and some VA plans. We work to reduce financial barriers and can discuss insurance, self-pay options, and available funding support when you schedule.

Reach out to our Executive Director and IBCLC, Natosha, at natosha@nextgenfamilyservices.org. No application is necessary!

Absolutely. We encourage partners, family members, and other support people to attend.

NGFS offers evidence-based prenatal, breastfeeding, and parenting classes, including:

• Prenatal breastfeeding classes

• Newborn care classes

• Infant safety classes

• Babywearing education

• Perinatal nutrition sessions

• Estate planning for growing families

We do provide free baby items at most of our classes. In some cases we may be able to provide a free car seat for families who qualify.

Classes may be offered in-person, virtually, or in a hybrid format depending on the topic and schedule.

Some classes are designed specifically for pregnant families, while others are open to parents, caregivers, and community members.

Yes. We provide free car seat safety checks in Greater Lansing conducted by a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST).

We review proper installation, ensure your car seat fits your child correctly, and provide education so you feel confident installing it on your own.

Availability may vary. Please contact us to learn about current car seat resources.

Capital Area Baby Café is a free, welcoming breastfeeding support group facilitated by trained professionals, offering peer support, education, and connection.

You can schedule services or register for classes by registering through the website or contacting us directly through our email or phone.

Yes. We strive to offer flexible scheduling, including evening and limited weekend options, to meet families’ needs.

We ask that you notify us as soon as possible if you need to reschedule so we can offer the time to another family. If canceling a lactation appointment there is a $25 cancelation fee. 

Many services are free or low-cost thanks to grants, donations, and community funding. Costs vary by service, and no family is turned away due to inability to pay.

Unfortunately, right now we do not offer services in other languages but you are welcome to bring someone to intrepret for you. 

Yes. NGFS is committed to providing inclusive, affirming, and culturally responsive care for all families including the LGBTQIA+ community. 

You can support NGFS by donating, volunteering, partnering with us, or sharing our services with families who may benefit.

Yes. We welcome partnerships with healthcare providers, community organizations, and local agencies.

For questions, scheduling, or more information, please contact Next Generation Family Services through our website or email. We’re happy to help!