Hello Lactnetters,  it seems I only write when stumped, and true to
form....I'm stumped.

I've just begun a new job at a Native heath centre.  I'm the resident
LC, joining an MD, nurses, counsellors, traditional native  healer,
naturopath and chiropractor.  I'll be  doing a breastfeeding/early
parenting support/information class, supporting the rest of the staff
in supporting BF, generally making the place more baby friendly (I
have a ways to go...there was a case of formula in my "office" this
morning)
My problem is this.. this group of mothers and mothers-to-be  have
an assortment of challenges that I'm unfamiliar with.  Some are
homeless, some are dealing with addiction to alcohol, crack
cocaine or heroin, a high percentage (80-90%) have a past history
of sexual assault or abuse.  A great number of these mothers grew
up in care, and have no parenting role models, or experience of
family life. Many are undereducated.  Many in difficult relationships.

While I'm pleased to be working with Mothers and babies who need
all the advantages they can get,  my past experience is working
largely with middle-class moms, who might have one or two
social/cultural issues for me to learn, I'm new to a group with this
many big ones.

Where do I start?  Is there anyone out there doing similar work with
experience or pointers to share?
 Any and all  information gleefully recieved.

Many thanks,

Stephanie Pearl IBCLC
Toronto, Canada

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