Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is hosting a “Big Latch On” event. 

On Friday, August 3, 2018, moms who are breastfeeding are invited to take part in this global event with their babies at the Cypress Grove Park, 290 Holden Avenue, Orlando FL 32839. This free and family friendly event will start at 10:30 a.m. 

Moms are asked to arrive at least 30 minutes early to get settled. Friends, family, and the community can join this celebration to promote and support breastfeeding. 

“Breastfeeding is best. It builds mother infant bonding. It protects children against major health risks including childhood obesity and infections,” said Dr. Kevin Sherin, Florida Department of Health in Orange County Director and Health Officer. “Breastfeeding is the best return on investment for the business community. Breastfeeding friendly daycare and workplaces deserve greater recognition and support. If new moms can breastfeed at work, it will attract new employees. Let’s build a breastfeeding supportive culture for new moms everywhere.” 

The department is working to promote breastfeeding as a vital health activity and encourages breastfeeding-friendly hospitals, child care facilities, work places, and communities. 

Background:

The first Big Latch On took place in Aotearoa New Zealand in 2005, it was introduced to Portland, Oregon in 2010 by Small Beginnings Group LLC and has now taken off globally. 

The Global Big Latch On is based on the principles of community development, providing the opportunity for breastfeeding women to get together in their local communities, host their own events, and identify opportunities for on-going support. 

Breastfeeding contributes to the normal growth and development of babies and children. Those who are not breastfed are at increased risk of infant morbidity and mortality.  In addition, breastfeeding offers protection against adult obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and premenopausal breast cancer as well as ovarian cancer for both mom and baby.  The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months of a baby's life to optimize these benefits, continuing to breastfeed for two years and as long thereafter as is mutually desired by a woman and her child. 

For more information about the Big Latch On visit www.biglatchon.org. To learn more about National Breastfeeding Month and the benefits of breastfeeding visit www.usbreastfeeding.org, www.llli.org or www.flbreastfeeding.org.