MOBILE, Ala. — The Women, Infants & Children (WIC) supplemental nutrition program at the Mobile County Health Department has brought back the in-person breastfeeding support group The Lactation Circle, which is designed to better serve its participants.

The Lactation Circle provides support for breastfeeding women on WIC in Mobile County. The team is led by WIC’s Breastfeeding Coordinator LaDina Hudson, who revitalized the program that was once only available via Zoom.

“WIC is excited to be offering in-person breastfeeding support groups in our very own facility,” said Hudson. “This is the perfect way to gain breastfeeding support from other breastfeeding moms and have all your questions answered by a well-qualified team of peer counselors.”

WIC’s Breastfeeding Peer Counselor program (BFPC) consists of three peer counselors: Andrea Portis, Terilyn Hodges, and Marisha Wright. These peer counselors can help troubleshoot supply issues and talk through barriers of breastfeeding.

Since the relaunch, MCHD has received great feedback from participating breastfeeding mothers. One participant expressed that the BFPC program provided vital-breastfeeding education, hands-on lactation experience, and a comfortable environment.

“WIC is excited to offer in-person breastfeeding support groups in our very own facility, Keeler’s Auditorium,” said Monique McMillan, the District Nutrition Director for WIC. “This is the perfect way to gain breastfeeding support from other breastfeeding moms and have all your questions answered by a well-qualified and amazing team of peer counselors.”

The Lactation Circle groups are set to gather at the Keeler Memorial Building’s Auditorium (251 North Bayou Street in Downtown Mobile) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. and from 1:15 to 3:15 p.m.

“You too can experience informative and dedicated staff in Mobile County,” McMillan said. “We look forward to seeing you. If you have any questions, feel free to call LaDina at 251-690-8986.”

“Can not join us in person?” Hudson asked. “No worries! Peer counselors are always eager to reach out for over the phone session as well.”

If you are not yet on WIC and are WIC eligible, please call 251-690-8829 to make an appointment at your most convenient WIC location. In addition, you can learn more by visiting https://mchd.org/wic.