FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mono County Board of Supervisors Recognizes August as National Breastfeeding Month


MONO COUNTY, Calif. (August 10, 2026) – Last Tuesday, the Mono County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a proclamation recognizing August as National Breastfeeding Month, reaffirming the County's commitment to supporting families, improving maternal and infant health, and expanding access to lactation resources throughout the community. The proclamation was presented by Kalina Gardiner, Director of the Mono County Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program, during the Board's regular meeting.


National Breastfeeding Month highlights the many health, economic, and environmental benefits of human milk feeding while recognizing the families, healthcare providers, peer counselors, and community organizations that help parents meet their infant feeding goals.


"Breastfeeding provides lifelong health benefits for both babies and parents, but families should never have to navigate that journey alone," said Kalina Gardiner, Director of the Mono County WIC Program. "This proclamation recognizes the importance of ensuring every family has access to the education, encouragement, and professional lactation support they need to make the feeding decisions that are right for them."


According to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization, exclusive human milk feeding is recommended for approximately the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods for two years or as long as mutually desired. Breastfeeding has been shown to support healthy infant development, strengthen immune systems, improve maternal health outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs.


The proclamation also acknowledges that systemic barriers continue to create disparities in breastfeeding rates, particularly among Black and Indigenous communities, and affirms Mono County's support for policies and resources that expand equitable access to lactation services for all families.


"The Board of Supervisors is proud to recognize National Breastfeeding Month and the important work being done by our WIC Program and healthcare partners," said Supervisor


The Mono County WIC Program provides nutrition education, breastfeeding support, healthy foods, and referrals to health and community services for eligible pregnant and postpartum individuals, infants, and young children. Certified lactation support is available to help families before and after birth, ensuring they have the resources needed to meet their infant feeding goals.


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