Celebrating National Breastfeeding Month: Barry-Eaton District Health Department’s Initiatives
July 31, 2025
August marks the celebration of National Breastfeeding Month, and the Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) is emphasizing the theme “Forward Together.” This concept highlights the importance of unity and solidarity in supporting breastfeeding families across communities.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights the significant benefits of breastfeeding, which extend to families, businesses, and the wider community:
- For infants: Breastmilk is not only safe and clean but also loaded with antibodies that shield against various childhood illnesses. It enhances intelligence test performance in children and lowers the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), leukemia, and celiac disease.
- For parents: Engaging in breastfeeding fosters a stronger bond with the child and provides health advantages such as reduced risks of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.
- For businesses: Companies that accommodate breastfeeding witness reduced employee turnover, elevated job satisfaction, and increased productivity.
- For communities: Breastfed infants tend to be healthier, thereby decreasing the need for medical visits, hospitalizations, and healthcare services.
BEDHD’s Supportive Programs for Breastfeeding
Demonstrating its dedication to maternal and child health, BEDHD facilitates several programs to aid families in achieving their breastfeeding objectives:
- Baby Café: A complimentary and informal setting where mothers and families can seek breastfeeding advice, connect with other moms, and obtain expert lactation guidance from an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).
- WIC: Provides free breast pumps and supplies, breastfeeding support from a Peer Counselor, and access to an IBCLC for eligible pregnant, breastfeeding, or caregiving individuals of a child under five, including fathers, grandparents, or foster parents.
For detailed information, visit: www.barryeatonhealth.org/breastfeeding/
Maternal and Child Wellness Events
In observance of Breastfeeding Awareness Month, BEDHD is organizing Maternal and Child Wellness Events in Barry and Eaton Counties. These gatherings are designed to provide families with education, resources, and entertainment, featuring participation from healthcare professionals and community organizations. Highlights include:
- Free milk storage bags and breastfeeding pads for the first 15 breastfeeding or pregnant mothers
- Safe Sleep Education coupled with a Free Pack N Play for eligible families
- Free raffle prizes such as Boppy pillows and nursing covers
- In-house nutrition and breastfeeding consultants
- Resources focused on maternal and child health
- A walking path enriched with breastfeeding facts
- Snacks, giveaways, and activities suitable for families
Barry County Event
In collaboration with Corewell Health – Pennock
Date: Tuesday, August 5th
Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Tyden Park
Address: 304 N Broadway St, Hastings, MI 49048
Eaton County Event
In partnership with U of M Health – Sparrow Eaton
Date: Wednesday, August 6th
Time: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
Location: Bennett Park
Address: 1305 S Cochran Ave, Charlotte, MI 48813
These events are free and open to the public, encouraging participation from families, caregivers, and community members.
For further details, visit facebook.com/barryeatonhealth or reach out to Amanda Rousseau at arousseau@bedhd.org
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