Ontario County Public Health is honoring World Breastfeeding Week by spotlighting local efforts to build stronger support systems for families.
Observed annually from August 1–7, the global campaign this year carries the theme: “Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems.”
“It reminds us that breastfeeding is not just a personal choice—it’s a community effort,” the department stated in a release. “Families do better when they have strong support from doctors, nurses, employers, daycare workers, and loved ones.”
Christy Richards, Senior Health Educator and Lactation Counselor for Ontario County Public Health, emphasized the department’s inclusive approach to infant feeding. “Whether you breastfeed, chestfeed, pump, use donor milk, or formula feed, what matters most is the love and care you give your baby,” she said. “We’re here to walk alongside you with compassionate support, because no one should have to navigate this journey alone.”
The department encouraged paid family leave, breastfeeding-friendly workplaces, safe and clean spaces for feeding or pumping, and access to breastfeeding education and parenting support.
Ontario County Public Health offers a variety of free services, including breastfeeding education, back-to-work pumping classes, postpartum check-ins, in-home visits, clinic appointments, and telehealth options.
More information is available at www.ontariocountyny.gov/2221/Classes.
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