DARE COUNTY, N.C. — New and expectant mothers are often encouraged by healthcare professionals to consider breastfeeding to support their baby's growth and development. The process can benefit moms as well, from protecting both against certain illnesses and diseases to helping them strengthen the bond between them.
The Dare County Department of Health and Human Services WIC (Women, Infants and Children) Program offers services and resources to these mothers and was recently recognized for its efforts. During the 2024 North Carolina WIC Conference, the Dare County WIC Program was awarded with recognition of the Highest Breastfeeding Duration Rates at Six Months in a Rural Setting.
"It was certainly an honor for our agency to receive this award and I think it shows the hard work and dedication of all our Dare County WIC employees," said Dare County WIC supervisor Rylee Simonsen. "This is an effort that has been ongoing for many years, with a dedicated staff that prioritizes breastfeeding education and support."
WIC is a nutrition education program that is federally funded and provides free resources to people who are low-income or nutritionally at-risk. WIC programs not only support breastfeeding efforts but provide women and children up to 5 years old with nutrition resources and access to healthcare, supporting growing families.
"A large part of WIC is making appropriate referrals, so we often refer women to other resources to support lactation," Simonsen said. "We keep an updated list of community resources in the area to provide to women who want extra information and support."
WIC has three offices in Dare County, and is just one of many community resources available to breastfeeding mothers in the area. Other resources include the Baby LINKS program, Waterlife Pregnancy Care Center and the Outer Banks Breastfeeding Bistro.
Applicants have to meet certain categorical, residential, income, and nutrition risk requirements to qualify for WIC programs. North Carolina residents can learn more here.
