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Board proclaims Durham a breastfeeding‑friendly community; advocates cite reduced infant‑mortality disparity
Summary
The board declared Durham County a breastfeeding‑friendly community. A local breastfeeding advocacy representative reported progress in reducing infant‑mortality racial disparities and outlined expanded local supports, lactation resources and community partnerships.
The Durham County Board of Commissioners on Aug. 12 adopted a proclamation declaring the county a breastfeeding‑friendly community and recognized local advocates and programs.
A Breastfeed Durham representative told the board that "we have decreased our infant mortality rate in Durham County by 8 percent compared to 1 percent decrease for North Carolina," and described program growth that now reaches more providers and families than six years ago. Commissioners and staff highlighted nurse‑home visits, lactation‑support resources in Cooperative Extension, and an expanded roster of breastfeeding‑friendly childcare providers.
Why it matters: commissioners noted that breastfeeding promotion is one part of a larger maternal‑and‑child health strategy meant to reduce racial disparities in infant outcomes. The proclamation highlights county investments and community partnerships but did not change policy or budget at the meeting.
