Shasta County's BPCP Earns USDA's WIC Award of Excellence
The Shasta County Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program (BPCP) has been honored with the prestigious Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Breastfeeding Award of Excellence by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This recognition stands as a testament to the exceptional breastfeeding support services provided by the program to the local community.
The Shasta County BPCP, staffed by a dedicated team of 7 part-time Breastfeeding Peer Counselors (BFPC), has consistently gone above and beyond in its mission to empower parents on their breastfeeding journeys. Here are some remarkable aspects of the program that contributed to this well-deserved recognition:
In-Person Support Groups: The program hosts two monthly in-person support groups, creating a safe and welcoming space for parents to connect, share experiences, and receive invaluable guidance from BFPC staff.
Online Community: Recognizing the importance of online support, the BPCP established the "Shasta Moms Circle" Facebook group. This thriving virtual community serves as a platform for parents to seek advice, share stories, and find encouragement, all from the comfort of their homes.
Accessibility: The program understands that breastfeeding challenges don't adhere to a strict schedule. To cater to the diverse needs of parents, the BFPC staff is available for weekend and evening shifts, ensuring support is just a call or visit away when it's needed most.
Breastfeeding Warmline: The presence of a breastfeeding warmline staffed by BFPC team members further exemplifies the program's commitment to being there for parents. This lifeline provides immediate assistance and guidance to those navigating breastfeeding challenges.
Targeted Focus: The BFPCs of Shasta County BPCP have honed their expertise to provide specialized support to first-time parents and participants facing various breastfeeding challenges. This tailored approach ensures that every parent receives the guidance and support they require.
The USDA's Award of Excellence is a recognition of the Shasta County Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program's dedication to fostering a supportive, nurturing community for breastfeeding parents. Through their in-person meetings, online presence, and round-the-clock availability, they have undoubtedly made a positive impact on countless families in Shasta County. This accolade serves as a well-deserved acknowledgment of their unwavering commitment to promoting breastfeeding and maternal-infant health in the community. Congratulations to the entire team at Shasta County BPCP for this remarkable achievement.
Learn more about the BPCP at - Breastfeeding Support Services | Shasta County California
Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Team:
Sara Stone IBCLC, BFPC Supervisor
Megan Gumm CLE, BFPC
Pamela Llano CLE, BFPC
Sudea Romo CLE, BFPC
Vanessa Holcomb BFPC
Olivia Ramsour BFPC
Haley Wiley BFPC
Danielle Shaffer BFPC/WNA (East Region)
Melanie Kennedy IBCLC (East Region)
Jennifer Clements IBCLC
IBCLC = International Board Certifies Lactation Consultant
CLE = Certified Lactation Educator
BFPC = Breastfeeding Peer Counselor
WNA = WIC Nutrition Assistant
