I need to add my 2 cents... Many mothers enrolled in WIC, who would be without ABM if it was not provided by the program (ie. our tax dollars), would still NOT breastfeed (probably for the same reasons they do not breastfeed now). The idea that they would breastfeed if they did not get the ABM is somewhat wishfull thinking; some would breastfeed but I doubt the numbers would be very high. Most likely the babies would receive cow's milk, sometimes diluted! And as stated by others, teas, soda, juices... are often given; these are often given now when the WIC supplied ABM runs out. We have a tremendous re-education of society not just moms on WIC. The program began in 1972 when breastfeeding rates were much lower than today's rates, when economically able parents were using the ABM. At this time, studies revealed the risks of feeding cow's milk vs. ABM and the poor outcomes of infants fed cow's milk. Thus, the inclusion of ABM as one of the food items in the WIC program; foods chosen to provide the nutrients most lacking in the diets of people in low-income households. As the program has evolved, ABM is still provided however rebates are now required which decreases the cost, and mandates were set to provide funding for breastfeeding promotion. (Why the BEST nutrition - human milk needed to be mandated in a Nutrition program is a good question!?! We are talking about a government program - I'm sure intentions were good.) As the Breastfeeding Coordinator for a local WIC program I often wish ABM would not be provided, but then I remember the babies and I am realistic that one does not cause the other. I would like to see incentives (not cash) perhaps a voucher redeemable for a breastpump (provided by the private sector) or rental of a pump (this would be fantastic especially for employed WIC moms). I have more to say but I've gone long enough. Hurray to Kathleen Bruce -- I've long thought health insurance should be tiered and that there should be choices, for example - basic, expanded, and premium/delux coverage. It would be similar to life, car, & house insurance -- the more coverage received the higher the cost -- and according to personal factors (age, health/lifestyle choices, feeding method etc) discounts to the cost would be made. On a related note, where are the incentives for health promotion/prevention in the health care changes currently taking place -- are health insurance companies and HMO's really in the business of health?? I think not. Down off the soap box- thanks for listening. Catherine Worthington, IBCLC 71614,[log in to unmask]