Release Date: October 3, 2008
Contact: Christine Patmon, Metro Health Public Relations Manager, 207-8638
Local Breastfeeding Moms Can Help Set an International Record
Metro Health’s WIC program partners with breastfeeding coalition and food bank for October 11 challenge and food drive
Local breastfeeding moms are encouraged to join others around the globe for a fun competition aimed at setting a record for the greatest number of babies “latched on” at the same time. Metro Health’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is teaming up with the San Antonio Breastfeeding Coalition (SABC) to host the International Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge. The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 11 at 11:00 a.m. at the San Antonio Food Bank, 5200 Old Highway 90 West.
The breastfeeding challenge also will serve as a food drive for the food bank. All breastfeeding families and supporters of this highly recommended practice are asked to bring a canned or boxed food item (see list below).
“Breast milk is the one and only food that is naturally supplied, always available and comes at no cost to the family,” said Director of Health Dr. Fernando A. Guerra. “With those advantages and the unparalleled health benefits that come along with mother’s milk, we should all be encouraging mothers to breastfeed. I think this event is a good way to remove any stigmas associated with breastfeeding.”
All participants should register at the SABC booth by 10:30 a.m. The breastfeeding challenge will begin at the same time at nearly 300 sites across the globe and will take place locally at 11:00 a.m. In addition to setting a world record, various sites will compete for top honors based on the number of breastfeeding babies per respective local birth rates. The San Antonio event will feature live music, face painting, snacks and educational booths.
“We are working with our partners to make this a festive atmosphere and invite all breastfeeding mothers to join us,” said WIC Program Manager Norma Lucia Zuniga. “It’s important for mothers, especially new moms, to know they have advocates in their homes and community for their rights and desire to breastfeed. In our WIC program, we strongly encourage, support and promote this practice because it is the best and most healthy nutrition for babies.”
Mother’s milk is recommended as the sole source of nutrition for babies until at least six months of age. It provides numerous benefits to the baby, mother, family and society (see fact sheet).
For more information, call WIC at 225-0213.
Please note the following requested items for the San Antonio Food Bank:
Peanut Butter
Tuna
Rice
Cereal
Beans
Chili
Macaroni and cheese
Canned Stews
Canned Soups
Canned Luncheon Meats
Full Meals in a Can/Box
“Pop Top” Food Items
