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WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Line Item Budget Worksheet Narrative The greatest percentage of Breastfeeding Peer Counseling (BFPC) funds is allocated to salaries, fringe, and indirect costs for the State Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Coordinator (currently vacant), State Breastfeeding Coordinator, Peer Counselors, and Peer Counselor Supervisors. Subrecipients, Jefferson County and Mobile County, receive funding to operate BFPC programs comprising three Peer Counselors and a Peer Counselor Supervisor at each agency. Alabama is refocusing efforts to gain approval from State Personnel for full- or part-time merit positions for Peer Counselors, which would provide additional benefits and pay rates above the current hourly rates. Discussions will begin in FY 2027. However, in the event that these efforts are unsuccessful, to overcome state government human resources limitations and utilize available funding more effectively, Alabama may select a lead agency, through an RFP process, to assist with expanding the BFPC program. If necessary, this RFP process may begin in FY 2027, however, a contract is not anticipated to be in place until FY 2028, due to selection and procurement timelines. By outsourcing the program, Alabama would ensure that BFPC positions offer salaries and benefits that are competitive with other employment opportunities. Remaining funds are allocated to BFPC program training, conferences/workshops, travel, and advertising to promote the BFPC program and continue BFPC recruitment efforts throughout FY 2027. Alabama continues to spend down carry-forward funding from FY 2026 ($600,000) for a total budget of $596,000. Alabama WIC does not request additional BFPC funds for FY 2027. Please provide a written narrative describing how the available WIC breastfeeding peer counseling funds will be used for the activities described on the previous page. If necessary, additional documentation may be provided as a separate attachment. 2