New City, NY, – Rockland County Executive Ed Day and County Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert announce that Rockland County will celebrate World Breastfeeding Week, August 1-7, 2021.
Join the Rockland community for the “Global Big Latch On!” virtual event on Saturday, August 7th, from 10:00 am to 11:15 am EST, hosted by Montefiore Nyack Hospital via Zoom Healthcare in partnership with the County of Rockland, Rockland Baby Cafés, and Rockland County Breastfeeding Coalition.
“Global Big Latch-On” events occur at registered locations worldwide, where people come together to support each other. This free community event is a celebration of all manners of breastfeeding, chestfeeding, and providing breastmilk during World Breastfeeding Week (WBW). The WBW theme this year is “Protect Breastfeeding ~ A Shared Responsibility.”
Pre-registration is required by August 3rd at https://bit.ly/3dOg58z. Event details and the Zoom Meeting ID will be provided via email to registered participants only. All registrants will be entered to win free raffle prizes. For more event information, call 845-348-7505.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life, followed by breastfeeding in combination with the introduction of solid foods until at least 12 months of age, and continuation of breastfeeding for as long as mutually desired by the mother and baby. Breastmilk provides essential nutrients and antibodies that boost an infant’s immune system, protecting them from childhood illnesses. Babies who are not breastfed are more likely to develop common childhood illnesses like ear infections and diarrhea, as well as chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, asthma, and childhood obesity.
“The proven health benefits from breastfeeding make it important for us to work together to help reduce barriers that breastfeeding mothers face and create a culture in the community where women feel comfortable and empowered to breastfeed their babies. World Breastfeeding Week is a perfect time to join activities that promote, protect, and support breastfeeding,” said Dr. Ruppert.
Looking for breastfeeding support and would like to join Free weekly Rockland Baby Café sessions? Are you interested in joining the Rockland County Breastfeeding Coalition or becoming a breastfeeding-friendly worksite, childcare center/home, pediatric or obstetric practice? Call the Health Department’s Breastfeeding Promotion and Support Program at 845-364-3786, email messingl@co.rockland.ny.us, or visit http://rcklnd.us/breastfeeding.
For more information about breastfeeding awareness throughout August, see National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, World Breastfeeding Week, and Black Breastfeeding Week.