WCAX.COM Local Vermont News, Weather and Sports-WIC recognized for high breast-feeding rates

WIC recognized for high breast-feeding rates

Burlington, Vermont - October 18, 2011

Vermont's program for Women, Infants and Children is being recognized for high breast-feeding rates.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded WIC just over $300,000 for outstanding achievement.

"The federal government said that Vermont, you're doing such a good job getting your WIC clients breast-feeding-- I think our rate is 77 percent-- that we're giving-- that this is a reward. So, we're really delighted about this. It really highlights the great work that we've done with our WIC clients and we're looking forward to making our rates even higher," said Dr. Harry Chen, the Vermont Health Commissioner.

WIC works to safeguard the health of low-income pregnant, postpartum and breast-feeding women, infants and children up to age 5. And because breast milk provides countless health benefits to babies, WIC mothers are encouraged to breast-feed.