In support of breastfeeding, moms and babies will gather at the Sechelt Early Years Centre on Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. to noon to take part in the Global Breastfeeding Challenge and celebration.
The challenge is to get as many moms breastfeeding at 11 a.m. as possible in various locations around the world.
Last year on the Sunshine Coast, eight babies latched on during the challenge and this year sponsors of the local event, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) and La Leche League Sunshine Coast, hope to draw more participants.
Anyone who supports breastfeeding is invited to come to the celebration at 5538 Shorncliffe Ave. between 10 a.m. and noon on Oct. 1 to enjoy refreshments and treats and the chance to win prizes, like a family photo session with a professional photographer.
Registration for the “latch on” starts at 10 a.m. with the challenge commencing at 11 a.m.
“It’s a global initiative to bring promotion and awareness about breastfeeding and breastfeeding support,” said Sandra Squires, VCH public health nurse.
VCH staff will be on hand to answer questions and provide information about the benefits of breastfeeding, as will members of La Leche League Sunshine Coast, which aims to provide information, encouragement and support to breastfeeding moms in the area.
The Global Breastfeeding Challenge was started in B.C. in 2001 and by 2011 there were 16 countries taking part yearly.
Last year there were over 4,500 breastfeeding babies counted across the globe during the challenge.
Find out more at www.babyfriendly.ca.
