BREASTFEEDING
The WIC Program promotes breastfeeding as the primary method of feeding babies. At Jackson County WIC, breastfeeding promotion and support include the following:
Lactation room within the health Department
Breastfeeding education for participants
Breastfeeding support group
Electric breast pump loan program
Breastfeeding Helpline
Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program
Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program
Jackson Co. WIC Program participates in the Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program. The peer counselor is a trained individual enthusiastic with their own personal breastfeeding experience. Her job is to talk with pregnant women about breastfeeding, offering support and assistance once the baby arrives. The majority of support is carried out in the WIC office or by telephone. Hospital and home visits are available on a case by case basis. One goal of the BFPC Program is to increase both the initiation and duration of WIC mothers who choose breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding Pump Information
Please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions for detail about the breast pump program.
Additional Breastfeeding Help
Helpline: 828-587-8214
Please be sure to leave a message and phone number; calls will be returned by the end of the following business day, (Monday – Friday)
The Federal Office on Women's Health (OWH) Helpline is staffed with breastfeeding peer counselors who can answer your breastfeeding questions, support you through breastfeeding challenges, and connect you with other resources to help if needed. The OWH Helpline is staffed Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Call 800-994-9662. Closed on federal holidays.
There are no local La Leche League groups but you can pick up your telephone and dial 1-800-LALECHE (525-3423) (US) for help and answers to common questions.