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Breastfeeding Support
Breastfeeding helps mothers and infants alike, keeping both healthier, reducing health care costs, and giving newborns a better chance to thrive throughout childhood. Studies show that breastfed children have fewer and less serious illnesses, reduced risk of obesity, and that their total medical care costs are lower than for never-breastfed infants. Their support—and a supportive environment from family, friends, employers, and the community—encourages successful breastfeeding and strong, healthy infants.
The Washington County Breastfeeding Coalition promotes, supports and protects chest/breastfeeding through education, outreach, and collaboration within our community. We envision a community where breastfeeding is the norm. Where families are supported and empowered to achieve their breastfeeding goals.
Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care
The Minnesota Department of Health recognizes family child care homes and child care centers that have taken steps to become breastfeeding friendly. The WCBC is available to assist home and center-based providers through the MDH application process. Together, child care providers and the WCBC can promote and support breastfeeding throughout the community.
Interested? Email PHE@washingtoncountymn.gov or call 651-430-6655.
Returning to work is a critical transition for breastfeeding moms. In Minnesota, employers must provide support for breastfeeding moms with a space and time to express milk (MN Statue 181.939). Living Healthy Washington County supports businesses in creating breastfeeding friendly environments for staff. Recent breastfeeding funded worksite projects have included transformations to existing rooms to provide adequate and comfortable space for chest/breastfeeding employees.
Resources
A nursing mother’s tent is available to rent free-of-charge for festivals, town days, and community events in Washington County. The tent provides individuals with a comfortable and private space for breastfeeding/chestfeeding at community events.
The tent is 10’L X 10’W and comes with a roller carry bag, ropes, waterproof top, and covered sides for privacy. The set-up, maintenance, and takedown will be the responsibility of the event staff and/or volunteers.