Opening doors to Breastfeeding Families
Background Information
Can you imagine how limiting it would be if you needed to seek a private place to eat every time you were hungry? One of the reasons women identify for not breastfeeding their babies for the recommended duration is discomfort with breastfeeding in public. In order to address the social embarrassment and disapproval women may experience, many communities have initiated a promotional campaign aimed to increase public awareness regarding the importance of breastfeeding and the significance of positive public support. This initiative is not about creating an atmosphere of guilt for women who do not breastfeed their babies, but to support women who are breastfeeding to be successful.
Creating partnerships with Penticton Businesses and Public Places
In order to support the local community to be Breastfeeding Friendly, the Okanagan Breastfeeding Coalition has developed the Breastfeeding Friendly Community Initiative. We have worked with 5 Penticton businesses to pilot the program – they include The Can Coffee Company, Whole Foods Market, Nogginz Hair Studio, Skaha Pharmacy and Valentini’s Restaurant. We would like to thank them for partnering with us on this exciting community health initiative.
Good for Business
In similar initiatives, it has been shown that businesses that become ‘Breastfeeding Friendly’ not only experience a tremendous amount of positive community recognition, but also find there is an increase in business from childbearing families – both desirable for better business!
How to Become a Breastfeeding Friendly Community Partner
1. Review the Breastfeeding Friendly Checklist (click on file below) and complete the simple steps.
2. Review the Breastfeeding Friendly Policy (click on file below) then inform your staff. Place the Breastfeeding Friendly Policy in your employee manual and/or post it for staff to review.
3. Contact the Okanagan Breastfeeding Coalition info@okanaganbreastfeeding.org to register as a ‘Breastfeeding Friendly’ Community Partner. You will receive a package with everything you need.
4. Create a welcoming atmosphere. Families should feel welcomed to breastfeed without being asked to cover up or move to the restroom or other more private location.
5. Display sticker. Place a ‘Breastfeeding Welcome Here’ sticker at the entrance to your establishment. Please email us at info@okanganbreastfeeding.org to get a sticker.
Brochures for Businesses
Brochures for Families
