Program Overview
New mothers are faced with many decisions. Deciding how to feed their child is one that requires support. Breastfeeding has many benefits for both the mother and child. Breastfeeding mothers and their children have a reduced risk of illness, chronic diseases and certain cancers.
Promoting breastfeeding is a high priority strategy adopted by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to improve maternal and child health. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that infants are exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months. At 6 months, mothers are encouraged to introduce solid foods and continue to breastfeed until the baby is at least 12 months.
In Erie County our goal is to work with hospitals, doctor’s offices, worksites and community organizations to support nursing mothers.
Breastfeeding Friendly Initiatives
Resources
Office of the Surgeon General
New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH)
- Breastfeeding Promotion, Protection, and Support
- Breastfeeding Information for Health Care Providers
- Mother’s Rights to Breastfeed or Express Breast Milk
- WIC Breastfeeding Information for Health Care Providers
- Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care
- Breastfeeding Bill of Rights
Office on Women’s Health
Health Resources and Services Administration
Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- IMPROVE Initiative to reduce pregnancy-related deaths
World Breastfeeding Week
Program Contact
Community Wellness
95 Franklin Street
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: (716) 858-7277
Fax: (716) 858-7964
E-mail: wellness@erie.gov