Breastfeeding Challenge

On September 29th, 2007 at 11:00 am mothers and babies at sites across Canada and the United States will compete to set the record for the most babies breastfeeding at one time. The winners of the competition will be the region (province or territory or state) with the most babies participating as a percentage of the birth rate. To level the playing field between large and small, each site will be entered into one of four groups determined by birth rate.

Why this challenge? Breastfeeding has many well-documented benefits including better health for both mothers and babies. However, many women fail to meet their own breastfeeding goals and wean their children prematurely, well before meeting recommended guidelines. Two of the biggest hurdles for mothers continue to be lack of support and marginalization by the community.

This event takes place as part of the celebration of World Breastfeeding Week in Canada. It is sponsored by the Quintessence Foundation, a non-profit group providing education to parents and professionals about breastfeeding. For more information contact Quintessence Foundation at 604-228-9331 or visit the website: www.babyfriendly.ca