Celebrate World Breastfeeding Week with Family Fun Walk
We live in a time where making the choice to breastfeed is more supported (and talked about) than ever and August 1-7 marks 2015’s World Breastfeeding Week. This is a week coordinated by World Breastfeeding for Breastfeeding Action and works in conjunction with local organizations, coalitions, and volunteers to create events that bring attention to the importance of breastfeeding. Billings is taking an active role in participating in this week with a Family Fun Walk and Celebration at Pioneer Park on Saturday, August 1.Who can attend? This walk is for anyone who is open to anyone that is nursing, has nursed or supports someone who nurses or has nursed – that means moms, dads, kids, grandparents and more are welcome to attend this family friendly event, says Amy Queen of the Billings Breastfeeding Coalition.
About the Billings Breastfeeding Coalition: The coalition is comprised of IBCLCs, CLCs, La Leche League leaders, local birth and postpartum doulas, as well as other individuals and organizations who are interested in supporting and promoting breastfeeding in Yellowstone County and neighboring communities. Current members include (but aren't limited to) Billings Clinic, St. Vincent Healthcare, RiverStone Health, and individuals representing Billings La Leche League. The coalition is currently working with the Montana State Breastfeeding Coalition to “grow and develop into a more active coalition that includes regular meetings with special speakers and annual public events,” explains Queen.
About the Billings Walk & Celebration: Billings’ 4th Annual World Breastfeeding Week Walk & Celebration will take place Saturday, August 1, 2015, 10am-12pm at Pioneer Park, near the playground area is free and will include raffle prizes (geared towards pregnant and nursing moms), presentations, information booths, child friendly activities, and more!
There are an incredible variety of items being raffled off (check out the event’s Facebook page for up to date coverage) including breast pumps provided by St. Vincent Healthcare, nursing and carseat covers from The Joy of Kids, a family membership to the YAM, and more!
The presentations will be on “Breastpump Use” and “Babywearing and Breastfeeding.”
Light refreshments and water will be available following the walk, but families are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy together following the presentations.
The theme for 2015’s World Breastfeeding Week is Breastfeeding and Work: Let’s Make it Work. Says WBW’s site, “Whether a woman is working in the formal, non-formal, or home setting, it is necessary that she is empowered in claiming her and her baby’s right to breastfeed.”
For more information about this event, check out the event’s Facebook page or contact Amy Queen at mamarisingdoula@gmail.com.