CHC trains women from various communities as breastfeeding peer counselors (BFPC). We help to place them in community settings, where they encourage and support new mothers to breastfeed. Our breastfeeding peer counselor model enables our programs to be delivered by women to their neighbors in their own language, in their own way.

The training that breastfeeding peer counselors receive from Chicago Health Connection gives them a thorough basic knowledge of lactation issues. The counselors play a critical role in helping new mothers feel comfortable and confident about choosing to breastfeed. They provide accurate information to help breastfeeding mothers deal with the many aspects of nursing. Equally important, they address the emotional needs of the new mothers. Peer counselors listen to and respond to individual concerns about breastfeeding and parenting, and are mentors who focus on making new mothers feel confident and comfortable about choosing to breastfeed.

 
Held every September, the 10-week training is usually held in the fall for women drawn from a variety of neighborhoods across the Chicago area. Training is conducted by a diverse team with extensive experience in breastfeeding education. Our training employs empowerment education (also called popular education) as an active approach to learning, growth and change inspired by Brazilian educator Paulo Freire.  It engages people in groups to identify their own important issues, analyze their situations, and develop strategies to positively change their lives. Participants are successful breastfeeding mothers who are committed to helping other pregnant and breastfeeding mothers in their communities. Stipends are provided to cover transportation and childcare costs.

If you would like information on becoming a BFPC, you can download this brochure or contact us.
 
©2008 CHC. All rights reserved. 954 W. Washington, Box 36, Fourth Fl., Chicago, IL. 60607
312.243.4772 (o) - 312.243.4792 (f) - info@chicagohealthconnection.org