Breastfeeding is a journey, and no two journeys look exactly alike. From preparing during pregnancy to navigating the first days at home, returning to work or school, pumping, introducing solid foods, and eventually weaning, having the right support along the way can make a meaningful difference for families.
This August, during National Breastfeeding Month, the Florida Department of Health in Miami Dade County WIC Program celebrated breastfeeding families at our 15th Annual Breastfeeding Awareness Family Day. More than 1,000 people joined us for a day filled with education, community resources, family activities, and breastfeeding support. It was a wonderful reminder of something we see every day at WIC: breastfeeding support matters.
At Miami Dade WIC, that support can begin before a baby is even born. When mothers join WIC during pregnancy, they have an opportunity to learn about breastfeeding, ask questions, prepare for their baby’s arrival, and build a relationship with the breastfeeding team. Starting these conversations during pregnancy can help mothers feel more prepared and supported once their baby arrives.
Our breastfeeding program includes 8 International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) and 18 Breastfeeding Peer Counselors who support families across our 15 WIC locations. Our peer counselors have experience breastfeeding their own children, and they provide encouragement, education, and practical support throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. Our IBCLCs are breastfeeding experts who can provide specialized care when mothers experience challenges or have concerns about breastfeeding. Here is what some of our Miami-Dade WIC participants have shared about their experience:
“They are amazing and so nice and very helpful. They make my experience with breast feeding and receiving benefits very easy and explain everything that I don’t understand. When I am worried about my breastfeeding journey they always assure me that I’m doing great especially if baby is getting all of his nutrients.”
“La especialista en lactancia que me atendió cuando fui en persona en septiembre me dijo que haría un follow up y asi fue. Se tomó todo el tiempo para estar segura que todo estaba marchando bien y si ya no tenía las preocupaciones y molestias que tenía cuando fui en persona. También en esta videollamada ella muy pacientemente escuchó y respondió todas mis dudas y preguntas asegurándose que yo siguiera con lactancia materna para mi bebé. Muchas gracias!!!”
Breastfeeding needs change as babies grow. In the early days and weeks, mothers may have questions about latching, milk supply, feeding frequency, or whether their baby is getting enough milk. Later, questions may shift to pumping, returning to work or school, introducing complementary foods, or continuing breastfeeding as their baby grows. WIC families can receive support throughout each of these stages.
For mothers who are separated from their babies, Miami Dade WIC also offers a robust breast pump program. More than 800 breast pumps are issued annually to eligible WIC participants, helping mothers maintain their milk supply and continue providing breast milk when returning to work or school or during other periods of separation.
Breastfeeding questions do not always happen during an appointment. Families can call our dedicated WIC Breastfeeding Helpline at 786-336-1336 for support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A live breastfeeding specialist is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and messages left after hours, on weekends, or during holidays are returned by our breastfeeding team.
Every breastfeeding journey is different. Some mothers may need a little reassurance, while others may need more specialized lactation care. Our goal is to make sure families know they have someone they can turn to along the way. Miami‑Dade WIC offers breastfeeding support groups in Homestead, Palmetto Bay, Hialeah, and Liberty City, giving families a warm and supportive place to learn, ask questions, and connect with others. We’re here to help you feel confident and supported throughout your breastfeeding journey.
If you are pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding, or caring for an infant or child up to age 5. Miami-Dade WIC is here to support you and your family. To connect with WIC or schedule an appointment, call 786-336-1336. Families seen by a Nicklaus Children’s health care provider can also ask to be referred directly to Miami-Dade WIC, making it easier to connect families with WIC services and support.