Richmond and Henrico health districts are highlighting their breastfeeding support programs as part of National Breastfeeding Month. This year’s theme is “Nourish, Sustain, Thrive.”

RHHD offers a range of services to support breastfeeding parents, including nutrition education and counseling, breastfeeding support, services, and supplies, referrals to community partners, and access to prenatal, maternal and pediatric health care.

A key program is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. WIC assists, mothers and children up to age 5 during critical growth periods.

“Breastfeeding Peer Counselor support helps WIC families meet their infant feeding goals,” said Virginia State Breastfeeding Coordinator Jarene Fleming. “We encourage families to contact us early in pregnancy to receive the most benefit.”

WIC’s Breastfeeding Peer Counselors provide support before and after childbirth through clinics, home visits, hospitals, and phone consultations.

RHHD also offers maternity case management in Spanish and English, focusing on early access to prenatal care. Henrico County residents may call (804) 501-5520, while Richmond City residents can call (804) 482-5454 for more information.

The health districts emphasize that their family-first support extends to all expecting parents and families with young children, regardless of feeding choices.