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Ed Day, Rockland County Executive

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 24, 2015
Contact:  Scott Salotto (845) 638-5645
                Patricia Schnabel Ruppert, DO, FAAFP (845) 364-2512

HEALTH DEPARTMENT CELEBRATES WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK

NEW CITY, NY - - Rockland County Executive Ed Day and County Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert announce that August 1st through 7th is World Breastfeeding Week, a perfect time to encourage new parents, and parents-to-be, to consider the benefits of breastfeeding your baby.

During World Breastfeeding Week, when you shop at one of the following local Farmers' Markets, get more than just fresh, delicious and nutritious food! Get information about breastfeeding and get your questions answered by lactation (breastfeeding) experts. These events will be held, weather-permitting, on:

  • Wednesday, August 5th from 11 am – 2 pm at the Spring Valley Farmers' Market, located at the corner of Main and Church Streets in Spring Valley
  • Thursday, August 6th from 11 am – 2 pm at the Nyack Farmers' Market, located at the municipal parking lot on Main Street in Nyack

Breast milk provides your baby with a healthy start in life, and promotes normal healthy growth long after breastfeeding ends. "As nature's perfect food, breast milk helps your baby fight off illnesses, and ensures proper brain and eye development, and a healthier immune system and digestive tract.  Breastfeeding can reduce your baby's risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), respiratory illnesses, allergies, asthma, obesity, diarrhea, ear infections, and other illnesses," said Dr. Ruppert.

The Department of Health offers a Breastfeeding Promotion and Support Program  to help you get started and continue breastfeeding successfully. A breastfeeding expert provides free breastfeeding education and counseling (in person or over the phone) and help with breastfeeding challenges.

For more information, call (845) 364-3786, email messingl@co.rockland.ny.us or visit https://rocklandgov.com/departments/health/programs-and-services/breastfeeding-promotion-and-support-program/.