We do have in two provinces distribution of formula to mothers on
welfare.  Quebec gives coupons to cover the difference in cost between
cow's milk and infant formula.  But they also give $50/month cash to
mothers who breastfeed.  In New Brunswick they did start giving free
formula to mothers on welfare, but I hear they are going to stop that
after only a short time.  In most other provinces, it is possible to
get free formula if you are on welfare, but it is not a universal
programme and depends on circumstances.

Kathleen, if you check my post on this issue, you will note, that I
mentioned that the origin of many of our Hispanic mothers is different
from what I hear the situation is in many US cities.  That is, they
generally come from south of Panama, most from Peru, Ecuador, Chile,
Columbia, though, of course, we get many from everywhere, just as you
do in the US.  They often have come with their nuclear family, at
least, in tact, and often with much of the extended family.

Jack Newman, MD,FRCPC