DC WIC POLICY & PROCEDURE MANUAL

Policy 2.010 1 | P a g e Title: Breastfeeding Promotion in WIC Clinics Category: Nutrition and Breastfeeding Education CFR Reference: 7 CFR § 246.11(c)(7) Policy Number: 2.010 Effective Date: 1/1/2016 Revised Date: 8/15/2023

POLICY STATEMENT The State Agency ensures that the Local Agency adheres to the following: 1. Maintain a positive clinic environment which endorses breastfeeding as the preferred method of infant feeding. 2. Designate an appropriate staff member to coordinate breastfeeding promotion and support activities in accordance with DC WIC policy 4.002 Position Descriptions. 3. Ensure that women have access to breastfeeding promotion and support activities during the prenatal and postpartum periods. PROCEDURE 1. The Local Agency must, at minimum, ensure a positive clinic environment for breastfeeding by: a. Posting breastfeeding promotion, information, and resources in plain view of all participants. b. Welcoming participants to breastfeed anywhere in the WIC clinic, as they feel comfortable, and providing a private space to breastfeed or express milk. c. Refrain from using or posting any products, supplies, or promotional materials branded with infant formula company information, products, or logos. 2. The Local Agency must designate a breastfeeding coordinator to assist in the implementation and adherence of the Local Agency Nutrition Services Plan breastfeeding activities, and to assist with employee training in breastfeeding education and support. 3. The Local Agency ensures adequate staffing and/or procedures to provide breastfeeding education, promotion, and support activities to all pregnant and postpartum participants at each of its clinic sites.

REFERENCES 7 CFR 246.11(c)(7) FNS WIC Nutrition Service Standard #8 FNS WIC Breastfeeding Policy and Guidance DC WIC Policy 4.002 Position Descriptions