The Northeast Health District recently earned a nationwide distinction from the United States Department of Agriculture for the district’s breastfeeding support and promotion in the Women, Infants and Children program.
The 10-county district’s WIC program is a federally funded health and nutrition program providing women and young children in low-income families with services to help improve pregnancy outcomes, reduce infant mortality and give children early support through food and education. These services include nutrition counseling education, breastfeeding support and coaching, a health resource library plus electronic eWIC card for supplemental foods.
The Northeast Health District was one of five districts throughout Georgia to earn this distinction for 2024. Per the USDA’s website, the award is designed to recognize exemplary local WIC breastfeeding programs and provide models to guide other WIC agencies to increase breastfeeding initiation and duration rates among WIC participants through highly trained peer counselors and lactation consultants as well as a positive, encouraging clinic environment.
“Our district could not have earned this award without the tireless efforts of our entire WIC staff,” said Northeast Health District nutrition services director Chelsea Freeman. “The clerical staff members are the first stop for breastfeeding promotion and referral, nutritionists and registered dietitians offer breastfeeding education, and our peer counselors and Buddy Specialists provide breastfeeding encouragement and support.”
To learn more about WIC’s services and your potential eligibility, visit NortheastHealthDistrict.org/WIC.
