The Milky Way Breastfeeding Support Group

Breastfeeding is a perfectly natural but does not always come easily for some new mothers. We can help you become skilled and confident with breastfeeding so you can go on to raise healthy and happy babies!

At the Florida Department of Health in Santa Rosa, breastfeeding promotion and support are integral parts of the WIC program. Our department has an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) who is ready to assist you in making informed decisions about your feeding choice while instructing you in the basics of breastfeeding. To speak with our IBCLC, please call 850-564-2272.

We can help you become the confident breastfeeding momma you were meant to be. Our breastfeeding coordinator and peer counselors are available by phone seven-days-a-week to assist mothers in making informed decisions about infant feeding.

Many mothers find that peer support from other breastfeeding moms and families can help them to reach their breastfeeding goals. Our breastfeeding support group, The Milky Way, is open to all pregnant and/or breastfeeding mothers in the community, as well as nursing babies and toddlers, even if they are not enrolled in WIC. Call us at 850-564-2272 if you would like to learn more about The Milky Way.

To be eligible to participate in WIC: 

• You must be a resident of the State of Florida.  Undocumented immigrants are eligible as long as they reside in the state.
• You must be nutritionally at risk.  The assessment of nutritional risk is made by a trained health professional, usually at the local WIC office, at no cost to you.
• You must meet income eligibility.  Your family’s income must not exceed 185% of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines.  If you are currently receiving Medicaid, Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), or Food Stamps you automatically meet the income eligibility requirement regardless of actual gross.

 Click here to learn more about WIC.

Did You Know? 

• Develop A Stronger Bond with Your Baby: Breastfeeding releases the “love” hormone oxytocin in the mother, which improves the bonding between mother and baby.
• Provides The Best Nourishment Possible: Breast milk has hormones and the right amount of protein, sugar, fat and most vitamins to help your baby grow and develop.
• Be Healthier: Moms who breastfeed have lower rates of ovarian, breast and endometrial cancer.
• Lowers Risk of Illness: Research shows that breastfed babies have lower risks of asthma, obesity, ear infections, eczema, diarrhea and vomiting, lower respiratory infections, Type 2 diabetes and more, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.