WIC breastfeeding peer counselors(o)

The Maryland Department of Health will receive $1,999,829 under the WIC Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (CFDA 10.557) Formula Grant award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service. The funding will support the WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselors program from October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2024.

As the CFDA description indicates, the overall WIC program aims to provide supplemental nutritious foods, nutrition education, and referrals to health and social services to low-income pregnant/postpartum women and children up to age 5 who are nutritionally at-risk. Specifically, the Maryland Department of Health will utilize the Formula Grant funding to deliver breastfeeding peer counseling services to WIC participants through its Medicaid division. The peer counselors will provide nutrition education and support to promote breastfeeding among eligible state residents.