As many of you in the US know, the WIC program is up for reauthorization from
Congress. WIC serves about 40% of US infants. The reauthorization of the
BREASTFEEDING funds is important. These set-aside funds need to remain in WIC
for the breastfeeding work to continue. Many congressional representatives who
previously supported the set-aside breastfeeding funds are no longer in power.
Some are unaware that this money continues to be needed and must be set-aside
for the express purpose of promoting and supporting breastfeeding.

This week, the US House and Senate are not in session, which means that most
of our federal senators and house representatives are home. This represents an
excellent opportunity to call their home office and invite them to visit a WIC
office to learn about WIC and what you are doing to help clients with
breastfeeding. If you are a lactation consultant, peer counselor, or in any
way work with the WIC program, consider showing Congress how important it is
to be able to continue helping mothers breastfeed.

Barbara Heiser, NABA
Marsha Walker, NABA REAL