NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC – The first week of August marks World Breastfeeding Week, an international event highlighting the benefits of mother’s breastfeeding their newborn children.
Here in New Hanover County, the team at Women, Infants and Children (WIC) through the county’s Health and Human Services agency works year-round to emphasize the importance of breastfeeding by helping mothers and families in need of assistance.
“There is an abundance of research that shows how beneficial breastfeeding can be, not only to the child but the mother as well,” said Nutrition Services Supervisor Anne Wrenn. “Breastfeeding helps reduce a child’s risk of developing asthma, obesity, Type 1 diabetes, ear infections and so much more. For the mother, it can lower the risk of developing high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and breast cancer, among other health benefits. Our mission is to help the community understand these benefits and provide the support they need in breastfeeding and caring for the overall well-being of their children.”
As part of the weeklong event, WIC staff members will be available to speak with community members at the Big Latch-On from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, August 6 at UNCW’s Warrick Center (601 College Rd). The event, which is organized by the Port City Breastfeeding Project, provides support and information for mothers interested in learning more about breastfeeding.
Additionally, WIC staff members are available to discuss the department’s supplemental nutrition program – which provides health foods, breastfeeding and more with mothers who have children 5 years or younger.
“If you’re a mother or caretaker in need of support for a young child, we strongly encourage you to reach out,” Wrenn said. “Our team is committed to providing all the help needed to make sure families meet a child’s nutritional needs during the foundational years so they can succeed as they grow older.”
For more information about breastfeeding or child nutrition, contact New Hanover County Health and Human Services at 910-798-3400 or visit Health.NHCgov.com.