World Breastfeeding Week is an annual event that celebrates the importance of breastfeeding. 2008 marks the 17th annual World Breastfeeding Week which, in Canada, is celebrated from October 1st to October 7th, representing the 40th week of pregnancy when breastfeeding is initiated.
The theme “Mother Support: Going for the Gold” coincides with the Beijing Summer Olympics and was designed to direct focus on the need to support mothers to achieve the gold standard of infant feeding practices: exclusive breastfeeding for six months, followed by appropriate complementary foods and continued breastfeeding for two years and beyond.
To promote World Breastfeeding Week in our area, the Health Unit in conjunction with our local Breastfeeding Coalitions, organizes different activities. Some of these activities may include mall displays, radio ads, newspaper articles and certificates to breastfeeding newborns and their mothers.
In North Bay we will be sponsoring a “Breastfeeding Challenge” at the Northgate Square by the food court on Saturday, October 11, 2008 which happens to be Thanksgiving. This date was chosen in order to accommodate our worldwide partners. “The Challenge” is to have the most mothers breastfeeding simultaneously in a set geographic area. All breastfeeding mothers, family and friends are invited to attend. There will be draws as well as some musical entertainment.
Our aim is to have a breastfeeding friendly culture. Breastfeeding is celebrated year round, thanks to all mothers who are giving their babies the opportunity to benefit from this valuable resource, breastmilk.
If you visiting North Bay, please feel welcome to come and join the celebration! If you can't be here, look for a challenge in the community you are visiting.
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