The Department of Public Health celebrated National Breastfeeding Month with a Community Baby Shower at the Desert Mountain Educational Service Center in Apple Valley. The event provided resources, education, games and gifts to breastfeeding and expecting parents.
The Women’s, Infants, and Children’s (WIC) Program in partnership with Black Infant Health, Nutrition and Wellness, SmileSBC, Traffic S.A.F.E., California Home Visiting, Health Ambassadors, and the County Department of Behavioral Health provided attendees with information and resources to help them with their breastfeeding and parenting journey. In addition, Barstow Community Hospital, Global Communities, Inland Empire Health Plan, Providence St. Mary Medical Center, and Social Action Community Health System participated by tabling at the event.
Our goal is to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding and increase breastfeeding rates in San Bernardino County. Breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition for babies and has long-term health benefits for both mom and baby. To provide an in-depth conversation about these benefits, the event included a 45-minute panel discussion with experts comprised of a medical doctor, an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant, a Regional Breastfeeding Liaison and a Certified Lactation Education Specialist. The panelists shared their breastfeeding experiences and answered audience questions. Based on survey feedback, 78 percent of attendees felt this was the “most helpful” part of the event, followed by the information tables.
All attendees received a gift and a goodie bag. Staff, businesses and local agencies generously donated baby clothes, children’s books, diaper cakes, baby blankets, toys, gift cards, nursing bras and more. One attendee received the grand prize of a $100 VISA gift card.
We were excited to reach 153 parents (and parents-to-be) and their families at this event. Next year, we look forward to celebrating National Breastfeeding Month in another region of the county.
Dr. Priya, one of the event panelists, stated “The community baby shower was a fantastic event. It was full of educational resources and information, and was well received by the High Desert community.”
To learn more about WIC and the other programs and services available through the Department of Public Health, visit dph.sbcounty.gov. We encourage all parents and community members to take advantage of these valuable resources and join us at future events.
Additional County Update News – August 29, 2024
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- Register for this year’s State of the County
- Glen Helen scheduled to close early on Saturday, Aug. 31
- Community baby shower event in Apple Valley celebrates National Breastfeeding Month, engages over 150 families
- County office holiday closures
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