Breastfeeding program recognized

A local program that provides peer support services to breastfeeding mothers is making a difference and being recognized for it.

The Carlton County Peer Breastfeeding Support program received the Loving Support Award of Excellence. Run through the local Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, the Carlton County program provides breastfeeding education and offers peer support services to all pregnant and breastfeeding women.

In 2019, 89.6 percent of women who participated in WIC at Carlton County initiated breastfeeding with their infants, which exceeds the Healthy People 2020 goal of 81.9 percent, according to statewide WIC statistics.

Jenny Barta, certified lactation specialist, Carlton County program coordinator and Northeast Peer program co-coordinator, said the peer support service was set up to give moms the help they need, any time, any day.

“We realize that breastfeeding can be challenging at times, so we work diligently in this program to come alongside women and help them prepare to initiate breastfeeding during that “golden hour” after birth and to continue to provide support via phone and text after mom and baby return home,” Barta said.