Hello friends. I am hoping for some hints and tips for holding 
breastfeeding peer support mother- to- mother groups for the so-called 
disadvantaged population. I volunteer as peer counselor for a clinic run 
out of a city hospital. There used to be support group meetings up until 
about a year ago, when the person who coordinated and led the groups moved 
away. Understanding that peer support is crucial in increasing 
breastfeeding duration rates, the desire is there to begin holding 
meetings again. Here are my concerns: The clinic holds several classes for 
mothers with each providing "free" incentives for attendance. The IBCLC in 
charge has said that this approach works and is supportive of offering 
a 'freebie' to entice mothers to join the breastfeeding support group. I 
have given this much thought and do not concur on the "free gift" 
mentality. I have two reasons. The first is that I think it is 
condescending to buy off women to come to these classes, which they will 
only benefit from if they are there for the knowledge and not the free 
diaper bag anyway. Secondly, new parents of any economic sector are 
inundated with free samples, products, and advice from everywhere. What is 
the difference between the enticement of a free nursing bra to come to the 
breastfeeding class and a formula sample diaper bag gift? Does it send the 
message that childbirth ed and breastfeeding are so unpleasant that 
parents have to be bribed into attending? I do want to revive the support 
group, but have been told that nobody shows up unless there is a "free 
gift" to advertise on the poster. Another bit of useful info., in this 
geographic area (Central PA), support groups have had a traditionally 
tough time attracting participants. I do not know if it is an issue of 
culture, transportation (some areas are quite rural), or something that I 
haven't thought of. Any thoughts you all have would be most welcome. If 
you want to email me privately, that is welcome too. Thank you for 
allowing me to take up so much space today!

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