Rockland Health Department Hosts Family-Friendly Walk

On Saturday, August 6, the Rockland County Department of Health will host a family-friendly walk through Demarest Kill Park beginning at 9:30 a.m. The focus of the event, which will occur during World Breastfeeding Week, includes a guided nature walk as well as interactive activities along the way. Just show up, no pre-registration is required.

The trail at Demarest Kill Park, located off New Hempstead Road, is a half-mile loop and toddlers through seniors are welcome to travel the partially paved, partial dirt road. It is recommended that participants wear closed-toe shoes and bring sunscreen. Parking is free and there are no restrooms available.

The Health Department is partnering with Rockland County Trail Guide Docents, Rockland County Americorps, Rockland County Division of Environmental Resources, Steps to a Healthier Rockland, the Breastfeeding Promotion and Support Program, and the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program for the event.

The walk will incorporate child-geared activities such as scavenger hunts, nature games, coloring, fake tattoos, clowns, and various prizes. It will bring attention to World Breast Feeding Week, which lasts from August 1 to August 7. Tables will be set up along the way, where organizations can share information related to breastfeeding, WIC benefits, and general health matters. The walk and event will end at 11 a.m. and free snacks will be provided.  The rain date is set for Sunday, August 7.

According to Dr. Joan Facelle, Rockland County Commissioner of Health, “Breastfeeding and exercise have long-term health benefits for both mother and baby.”

“The walk will be very interactive and can be done in a relatively short amount of time,” says Melissa Jacobson, Assistant Director with the Division of Public Health Promotion and Education. “This is a great family activity.”