The Food and Nutrition Service of the US Department of Agriculture has just announced a request for public comments on the 2009 reauthorization of the WIC program. The reauthorization process provides Congress with an opportunity to examine the Federal nutrition assistance programs and consider making improvements to them. This is an important opportunity for breastfeeding advocates to submit their thoughts, experiences, and suggestions for enhancing breastfeeding support within WIC. Close to 50% of infants in the United States receive WIC benefits. This shows that much is at stake in the work to improve not only breastfeeding initiation rates but duration and exclusivity if we are to meet our national health goals.

?

The request for comments appeared in the May 20, 2008 issue of the Federal Register at

http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-11236.pdf. Comments must be received by October 15, 2008. Please consider helping WIC do a better job by asking Congress not only to provide better funding but also to enhance how breastfeeding services are delivered.


Marsha Walker, RN, IBCLC
Weston, MA



             ***********************************************

Archives: http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html
To reach list owners: [log in to unmask]
Mail all list management commands to: [log in to unmask]
COMMANDS:
1. To temporarily stop your subscription write in the body of an email: set lactnet nomail
2. To start it again: set lactnet mail
3. To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet
4. To get a comprehensive list of rules and directions: get lactnet welcome