City of Laredo Proclaims August as Breastfeeding Awareness Month
Written by Post Public Information Representative, Aug 10, 2021, 0 Comments
Courtesy David Alegria,
Laredo, Texas – City of Laredo Mayor Pete Saenz signed a proclamation declaring the month of August as “Breastfeeding Awareness Month” on Monday, August 9, 2021. The proclamation was read by Mayor Saenz and Councilmember for District 7, Vanessa Perez. The overall objective is to bring awareness, alongside with a worldwide campaign by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action, on the importance of breastfeeding. During the proclamation, Laredo Health Department representatives were present to discuss the benefits of breastfeeding including Guillermo Walls, Acting Assisting Director of Programs and Services, Erika Martinez, Assistant Director of Operations, and Maritza Benavides, WIC Program Supervisor.
Breastfed babies are less likely to have obesity, diabetes, sudden infant death syndrome, and acute ear infections. The City of Laredo Health Department, Healthy Texas Mothers and Babies, WIC Program, Obesity Prevention Program, and Laredo Nurse-Family Partnership encourage mothers to breastfeed infants for as long as possible. The community is encouraged to apply the following calls to action during Breastfeeding Awareness Month:
Employers in the community are encouraged to develop policies and practices that encourage employees to breastfeed while “on-the-clock,” which will reduce leave, turnover, and other expenses. Employers can become a Mother Friendly Worksite, a program implemented by the Laredo Health Department to encourage this practice while at work.
Healthcare providers should continuously evaluate clinical practices and learn about lactation support
The Laredo community is encouraged to bring awareness on breastfeeding benefits and its normalcy in both at home and the workplace
The Laredo Health Department has engaged in initiatives to provide resources for lactating mothers. In 2021, the Laredo Health Department re-initiated Baby Café, a unique environment and community for breastfeeding mothers led by lactation professionals. Also, the Nurse-Family Partnership program will certify nurse home visitors to be Certified Lactation Counselors. This will benefit low-income, first-time pregnant clients as they will be provided with lactation support. All month long, the City of Laredo will be raising awareness on the importance and health benefits of breastfeeding.
