WIC in New Hampshire does give free hand pumps and has Lactina pumps to loan when the need is great, and insurance co. won't pay. Of course, we can't give everyone this service, but then not everyone needs one. In my program we have a policy for evaluating the need for a pump and following up with counseling or support. Our rates are climbing, and we are working on increasing the duration. It is only one of the pieces necessary for a breastfeeding atmosphere of support. Breastfeeding as the norm! Michelle Scott, RD, MA, IBCLC [log in to unmask] ---------- From: Cindy Curtis[SMTP:[log in to unmask]] Sent: Tuesday, May 06, 1997 4:27 PM Subject: Re: What's your opinion? Debi : I think its better to recieve a free pump from a formula company than none at all , **if** mom will continue to breastfeed. Alicia : WIC gives mom free formula, too bad they wont give moms free pumps....... -- Cindy ~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~ Cindy Curtis , RN , IBCLC Virginia , USA mailto:[log in to unmask] http://www.tidalwave.net/~cindy