Empowering Mothers, Supporting Choices: WIC’s Breastfeeding Support Program
At WIC, we understand the profound benefits that breastfeeding offers both mother and child. That’s why breastfeeding promotion and support are at the core of our mission. We’re dedicated to helping mothers start and continue breastfeeding through informed, empowered choices.
Personal Guidance Every Step of the Way
From your first consideration of breastfeeding to nurturing your growing baby, WIC is here to guide you. Our trained staff are ready to assist you with personalized support, making your breastfeeding journey smoother and more manageable. Whether you’re looking for advice on the basics or need solutions to specific challenges, we’re just a conversation away.
Mother-to-Mother Support
Sometimes, the best encouragement comes from someone who’s walked the path. Many WIC agencies offer peer counselor support programs, where experienced breastfeeding mothers provide one-on-one advice, share their stories, and offer that crucial emotional support to help you feel confident and supported.
At Granville Vance Public Health, we proudly feature a bilingual Peer Counselor who not only offers guidance in both English and Spanish but also shares her personal breastfeeding experiences with her own children, enriching the support with real-life insights.
Additionally, all our WIC Nutritionists are trained as Designated Breastfeeding Experts. With over 100 hours of specialized training in complex breastfeeding issues, they bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help address any challenges you may face. This ensures that you receive the highest level of support and guidance tailored to your individual needs.
Enhanced Nutritional Benefits for Breastfeeding Mothers
WIC recognizes the extra nutritional needs of breastfeeding mothers. Our enhanced food package for women who exclusively breastfeed includes additional selections like canned tuna or salmon, extra whole grains, cereal, milk, cheese, and a variety of beans, peas, and lentils. This ensures that you have the energy and nutrients to support both your health and your baby’s development.
Breastfeeding Aids for Your Comfort
To ensure you have the best possible breastfeeding experience, WIC provides essential aids like manual and electric breast pumps. These tools are designed to support your breastfeeding needs, whether you’re at home or on the go, making it easier for you to provide the best for your baby.
Join Our Community of Supported Mothers
With WIC, you’re never alone on your breastfeeding journey. Connect with us to learn more about how we can support your choice to breastfeed, helping you and your baby thrive together.
Carolina Global Breastfeeding Institute (CCBI) is offering a free service that provides education to prenatal and postpartum women pertaining to breastfeeding in both English and Spanish. Classes are facilitated by lactation training students and staff at CCBI and precepted by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Please see flyer below:
North Carolina receives special funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to build and sustain Breastfeeding Peer Counselor (BFPC) Programs in the Local Health Department. The funding for the BFPC Program is allocated through the United States Department of Agriculture, Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for WIC. The purpose of the BFPC Program is to increase breastfeeding initiation and duration among women enrolled in the Local Health Department WIC Program through mother-to-mother peer breastfeeding support.
WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselors are moms just like you. Plus, they have breastfed their babies. They live and work in your community. Peer counselors offer support to pregnant and breastfeeding moms.
What does a WIC Peer Counselor Do?
For breastfeeding support or information, please contact:
Lucero Perez
Granville Vance Public Health
Breastfeeding Peer Counselor
(252) 295-1502
