I whole-heartedly stand behind Barbara Leshin-Zucker's post on WIC & BF
promotion.  Many of us work very hard to change WIC from what many call the
"formula program."  Some days are really hard when you have a mom that has
changed her baby's formula ten times in two weeks, and all you can think is
'why didn't she breastfeed.'  But when I think of those moms that would not
have gotten through that time, or knew that they could BF longer, or even
tried BF at all, it helps when you get the ones that say their milk 'just
dried up overnight', and never called anyone.

I believe WIC is the most challenging population to work with, but with 2
IBCLC's & 2 Peer Counsleor's on staff, for a caseload of 2000 per month we
really get the message out.  Our office has been stripped of ANY BMS (Breast
Milk Substitutes) manufacturers flyers, info, posters, etc. In fact, half of
our posters are about BF.

In May of 95 our sponsoring agency opened an electric breast pump rental
station.  We thought if moms had an affordable option, maybe they would
continue to offer EHM, even if they returned to work.  We offered a sliding
fee scale, hoping to break even.  We currently have about 30 pumps out, and
we are still growing!  We couldn't believe the response!  (WIC also owns 2
pumps, but we have a state policy that says they cannot leave the
office!--we're hoping to change that soon).  Our BF $ can also purchase
manual pumps, nursing pads, nursing supplementers, shells, and collection
kits for the electrics.

Our agency moved into a brand new building about 15 mos. ago.  I was
fortunate enough to help design the layout of our integrated clinic.  My
dream was to have a BF room.  I thought it would be axed for sure, but
sometimes dreams come true!  The room is about 9x11, right next to the
entrance/wait room, is carpeted, has a window with blinds, a new couch, a
TV/VCR to show BF tapes, a changing table, cabinets (to store breast pumps,
literature & supplies) and as many BF posters as I could fit in!  Now, I am
very proud (can you tell?) of this room, however, sometimes I think, why do
we need a separate room to "hide" to BF.

I always envy the LC's on here that seem to have clients that will continue
BF at any cost.  I know that's not everyone, but it is so rare to see in my
work environment.  WIC has a ways to go, but they've come a long way.
 Sometimes WIC is a formula program.  There are many of us who have "sold out
to the enemy" that are trying to educate & promote BF in the most challenging
of populations.

Sandy Arnold, BS, IBCLC
Indiana