Berkeley, California (Monday, August 6, 2007)  -  In celebration of August as Breastfeeding Awareness Month, families and staff from Berkeley’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program have organized a 20-minute walk from the Public Health Clinic to Aquatic Park on Tuesday, August 7. They will be walking in solidarity with thousands of breastfeeding advocates across California who will be participating in similar events. 

The theme for the statewide Breastfeeding Awareness Walks is “First Step to a Healthy Life,” emphasizing breastfeeding as an obesity prevention strategy. As highlighted in Berkeley’s 2007 Health Status Report, child obesity is one of the highest public health issues in Berkeley, throughout California, and across the country. Recent studies have documented breastfeeding’s role in preventing childhood obesity, when it is used exclusively (no formula or solid foods) and continues for at least the first six months of life. 

The City of Berkeley’s WIC Program has a comprehensive program to increase breastfeeding rates. Peer Counselors, Lactation Educators, and a Board Certified Lactation Consultant housed at the clinic site offer support and advice to pregnant and new moms. 

Who: Berkeley Families, Public Health Staff, and Advocates, and Residents What: Walk to promote breastfeeding awareness and obesity prevention When: Tuesday, August 7th, 2007; Noon 
Where: Public Health Clinic (830 University Avenue) to Aquatic Park (80 Bolivar Drive).

For more information on the Walk or other WIC initiatives, contact: lmonin@ci.berkeley.ca.us or (510) 981-5307.

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