Special Events in Rockland for World Breastfeeding Week Aug. 1-7

Aug. 1 - 7 is World Breastfeeding Week, a perfect time to encourage new parents, and parents-to-be, to consider the benefits of breastfeeding your baby, according to Rockland County Executive Ed Day and County Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert.

During World Breastfeeding Week, when you shop at one of the following local Farmers’ Markets, get more than just fresh, delicious and nutritious food! Get information about breastfeeding and get your questions answered by lactation (breastfeeding) experts. These events will be held, weather-permitting, on:

• Wednesday: from 11 am – 2 pm at the Spring Valley Farmers’ Market, located at the corner of Main and Church Streets in Spring Valley

• Thursday: from 11 am – 2 pm at the Nyack Farmers’ Market, located at the municipal parking lot on Main Street in Nyack

Breast milk provides babies with a healthy start in life, and promotes normal healthy growth long after breastfeeding ends.

“As nature’s perfect food, breast milk helps your baby fight off illnesses, and ensures proper brain and eye development, and a healthier immune system and digestive tract. Breastfeeding can reduce your baby’s risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), respiratory illnesses, allergies, asthma, obesity, diarrhea, ear infections, and other illnesses,” said Dr. Ruppert.

The Department of Health offers a Breastfeeding Promotion and Support Program to help you get started and continue breastfeeding successfully. A breastfeeding expert provides free breastfeeding education and counseling (in person or over the phone) and help with breastfeeding challenges.

For more information, call (845) 364-3786, email messingl@co.rockland.ny.us or visit https://rocklandgov.com/departments/health/programs-and-services/breastfeeding-promotion-and-support-program/.

PHOTO: The Putnam County Health Department sponsored a “Big Latch-On” event July 31 as part of World Breastfeeding Week.