NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County last Thursday hosted a “Sip” and Paint event in celebration of National Breastfeeding Awareness Month.
“This free community event was held to promote public awareness of the importance of breastfeeding to increase the number of infants who are breastfed, while providing expectant mothers and their families with information about the many health benefits of breastfeeding,” said the sprawling hospital in a statement.
It said over 50 new mothers gathered for educational resources, movement therapy, painting, raffles, giveaways and more.
Kings County Hospital said a lactation consultant was available to answer questions about latching and the different breastfeeding positions, as well as to provide information on breast-milk pumping and storage.
“Breastmilk is the natural first food for babies,” the hospital said. “It has antibodies that protect infants against infectious and chronic diseases.
“It’s also a wonderful way to express love and develop a bond with your bundle of joy,” it added.
World Breastfeeding Awareness Month is celebrated in more than 170 countries.
“Breastfeeding is advantageous to all mothers, regardless of race or socio-economical background,” said Kings County Hospital, adding that mothers who deliver their babies at the hospital are “supported by an environment that promotes breastfeeding, and encourages mothers to make breastfeeding a priority.”
