Last Updated on September 6, 2019 6:23 pm
AppHealthCare’s breastfeeding support program has received the gold level for the 2019 Loving Support Award of Excellence. This award recognizes local WIC agencies that have exemplary breastfeeding promotion and support activities.
AppHealthCare’s breastfeeding program supports pregnant and breastfeeding mothers in Alleghany, Ashe, and Watauga Counties. Services are provided by breastfeeding peer counselors who have had their own breastfeeding journey in addition to education to best support mothers and meet them where they are. The ways mothers receive support are varied but can include breastfeeding classes, breast pump loan program, breastfeeding supplies and networking with other mothers. In Alleghany County, a monthly breastfeeding support group meets at the local pregnancy care center as a time for mothers to come together and support each other while having childcare for their children.
At AppHealthCare, we strive to create a safe place for all women regardless of how they choose to feed their babies. We believe it is a mother’s right to choose how she will feed her baby, and we support her in that decision. Through this we believe women feel comfortable coming to our office for help with any type of feeding, but particularly breastfeeding and know they are welcome to consider partially breastfeeding and formula feeding. Creating a “no judgement zone” has been crucial, and we believe this has allowed women to openly talk about their struggles and stories as it relates to their breastfeeding journey.
There are many benefits to breastfeeding. Infants who are breastfed have reduced risks of asthma, obesity, ear and respiratory infections. There are also benefits to mothers who breastfeed including lowering the risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, ovarian and breast cancer (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention).
Are you interested in learning more about breastfeeding or do you need support from a breastfeeding peer counselor? Call AppHealthCare at (828) 264-4995.
For additional information about AppHealthCare or other community resources and health related data, please call our offices, Alleghany (336) 372-5641, Ashe (336) 246-9449, Watauga (828) 264-4995 or visit our website at www.apphealthcare.com and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
