By U-T staff
As part of its continued mission to aid new moms, the San Diego County Breastfeeding Coalition has expanded language options for its free breastfeeding support “warmline” and will offer assistance to callers in English, Spanish and Tagalog.
The nonprofit, which has worked to protect, promote and support breastfeeding in the region for more than 29 years, aims to ensure that nursing moms from diverse linguistic backgrounds have access to breastfeeding support services, especially those who are most vulnerable and have limited resources. Breastfeeding is considered a crucial aspect of maternal and infant health and its benefits are well documented, but not all mothers are able to do so easily or successfully, and many don’t stick with it.
With the expansion, funded by a grant collaboration with Global Communities Healthy Start Program and United Healthcare, the coalition plans to empower a wider audience with accurate information, referrals and guidance.
“The coalition’s aim is to facilitate a seamless process of connecting individuals with the rich network of local lactation consultants, support groups and other breastfeeding resources that can make a significant difference in their breastfeeding experience,” said Kiera Schminke, a local educator and board president of the San Diego County Breastfeeding Coalition, who also is a breastfeeding mom.
The free warmline is also available as a resource for hospitals, community clinics, social services and other organizations seeking referrals for their clients and patients. The warmline’s experienced lactation education counselors can connect callers with local breastfeeding resources tailored to their specific needs.
The breastfeeding coalition provides comprehensive support to families as well as individuals, including finding breastfeeding-friendly child-care providers and free breastfeeding support groups across San Diego County. It also offers workplaces the knowledge and tools to support breastfeeding in their settings.
To access the free breastfeeding support warmline, call (800) 371-MILK (6455). To learn more about the San Diego County Breastfeeding Coalition, visit breastfeeding.org.