Black Breastfeeding Week 2022

One week, countless ways to help and support Black and Brown mothers on their breastfeeding journeys.

We’re breaking down the barriers around Black and Brown breastfeeding, because it has never been more important to talk about the healthiest bond between mom and baby.

According to the CDC, three quarters (74%) of Black infants are ever breastfed, which is below the national average of 83%.

In Delaware, Black babies are almost 3 times more likely to die than white babies before their first birthday.

We could reduce infant mortality by eliminating disparities in breastfeeding.

Consider these additional benefits:

• Breastmilk gives infants a better chance of survival in the first year of life.
• Breastmilk is “preventative medicine” — it provides nutrients and immunities that put infants at lower risk of common childhood illnesses and infections, ranging from asthma to obesity to sudden infant death syndrome.
• Breastfeeding supports a mother’s health, putting her at lower risk of high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and ovarian and breast cancers.
• Early skin-to-skin contact helps newborns adjust to the environment outside the womb and enables emotional bonding.

For many reasons, breastfeeding isn’t always the easiest choice, but when it comes to the health benefits for Black and Brown babies and moms, it is the best choice. This week, we’re celebrating the many benefits that start with you.

Black Breastfeeding Week is a national program to show how important breastfeeding can be for Black and Brown babies, mothers, families, and entire communities.

Daily Events

Community Doula Program and Do Care Doula Foundation Inc. (CDCDP) Community Day — You Matter
Saturday, August 27th, 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Killens Pond State Park
5025 Killens Pond Road
Felton, DE 19943

 

The Community Group Latch
Bring Your Baby & Bring Your Smile!
Saturday, August 27th, 2022 from 3:00 to 4:00pm
5025 Killens Pond Road
Felton DE, 19943 Pavilion #4

 

 

 

UBUNTU Collective
Painting With A Twist — Come and paint a “breastfeeding” inspired canvas with artist Kevin Solomon. Limited capacity.
Thursday, August 25, 2022 from 6:00 to 8:00pm
2611 Governor Printz Blvd.
Wilmington, DE 19802

 

 

“Book & Boob” — Join us for a coffeehouse style book reading of “Free to Breastfeed: Voices of Black Mothers”. Limited capacity.
Saturday, August 27, 2022 from 4:00 to 6:00pm
2611 Governor Printz Blvd.
Wilmington, DE 19802

 

 

Zoom Meeting
The Big LATCH! — Join us for an online celebration for this year’s Black Breastfeeding Week.
Wednesday, August 31, 2022 at 7:00pm

 

 

 

 

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Hear from real women.

“The most incredible thing about breastfeeding is the unique bond it creates that will exist between you and your child only. Nothing like being able to comfort your child with what feels like magic, or a gummy smile directed at you.”
– LaShanna, breastfeeding participant

“Breastfeeding is the superior choice of infant food, and I appreciate the help of the WIC program.”
– Ana, breastfeeding participant

“As a mother of 10 children, I exclusively breastfed eight. What a difference in the magic of breast milk. I was helping mothers in the community long before I heard of a breastfeeding peer counselor. When I heard of the opportunity with the WIC program, I knew it was my calling. I absolutely love what I do!”
– Andrea, breastfeeding peer counselor

Breastfeeding Resources

Breastfeeding and lactation support for mothers and families.

Information for Families During the Infant Formula Shortage
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has provided tips, information, and resources to help you safely feed your child.

Infant Formula Shortage FAQs
Answers to common questions about safely feeding your child, acquiring formula, and more during the formula shortage.

Find a Milk Bank
Mothers who are unable to breastfeed can use this tool to find donor milk near them.

 

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