I want to share with you all a positive step that the local WIC Department
informed me about.  I went in on Thursday and did my monthly breastfeeding
class, there were six mothers signed up. only one showed.  So, I sat and
talked with her.

Anyway, when I was done, the County Nurse talked to me and wanted my input
on what kind of breastpumps would I recommend for a WIC client.  We then got
into a discussion as to how and why these pumps were being offered.  She
then told me that at the Illinois meeting, there was a discussion on how to
raise the rate of breastfeeding.  They came away with many different ideas.
They also had different copies of policies from other states on giving out
breastpumps.  This clinic asked me if I would help them write up their
policy for giving out breast pumps, etc.  All of this came from a discussion
at the state meeting.  This is something that sounds like it might be
statewide.  They are approaching an organization to write up a grant to fund
the buying of breastpumps.  They are talking a million dollars or so.

I walked out of there very excited!  They also asked me if I would have a
class or workshop in addition to my regular breastfeeding class to instruct
the mothers in the use, care, and cleaning of their pumps.  What I
recommended as pumps to purchase were only good, electric, grade pumps and a
good hand pump. (Not sure if you want me to use brand names or companies
here.)  These are all pumps that I have seen many mothers use and have sold
over the years.

Again, they thanked me and told me that breastfeeding rates had been raised
significantly since I have been coming.  I really applaud this WIC office
and am glad I am helping to facilitate change.  My focus has never been to
be negative towards WIC and the giving out of ABM.  I think a large part of
the change is because I have been consistent as a resource and really talk
with them on how to promote breastfeeding better.  They also want me to have
my La Leche League Series meetings there to get their clients involved in a
breastfeeding support group.  I am planning to do that in the beginning of
next year.

I also know of other Groups in Illinois that are also collaborating very
well with WIC and are holding meetings also in their local WIC offices.  So,
it might be a slow change, but it is coming, perhaps one county at a time!

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Connie Chiavario
Area Coordinator of Leaders
La Leche League of Illinois

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