Monterey County WIC invites public to 19th annual breastfeeding walk and health fair on Aug. 4

Monterey County WIC staff invited residents to the 19th annual breastfeeding walk and health fair on Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the WIC Wake office, 632 E. Alisal Street. "The walk does start at noon, and you get a free T shirt if you walk," certified lactation counselor Jasmine Medina said, outlining a farmers market, raffle and a free meal from a local food bank as part of the event.

Medina reviewed recommended breastfeeding practices from national bodies — exclusive breastfeeding for about six months, introduction of complementary foods afterward and continued breastfeeding through the second year or longer as mutually desired. She said Monterey County's breastfeeding rates are generally higher than statewide averages and identified local resources, including the regional "831breastfeeds" collaboration among Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito counties and La Leche League of Monterey County.

WIC staff noted workplace and structural challenges for agricultural working parents and said WIC provides prenatal and postnatal education, nutritional support and issuance of benefit cards for eligible families through age five. Staff encouraged attendees to visit the WIC pages and join the event, noting participants receive a complimentary T-shirt and other family supports.