Empowering Breastfeeding: A Source of Nurturing Support
Choosing to breastfeed is a great decision for moms and their babies. When babies drink breast milk, they get a special mix of nutrients, antibodies, and enzymes that help with healthy growth and development. This special milk also makes their immune systems stronger, which means they are less likely to get sick or have allergies. Plus, it has things that are good for their brains, making them smarter!
For moms, breastfeeding helps their bodies get back to normal after having a baby. It releases something called oxytocin, which makes the uterus (the part of the body that held the baby) go back to its normal size and helps reduce bleeding after giving birth. And when moms breastfeed, it's not just about food – it's a special time to connect with their babies and build a strong emotional bond.
Natural, free, and what’s best for mom and baby—that’s why we provide a strong system that helps moms reach their breastfeeding goals.
Did you know?
- 85% of mothers want to breastfeed
- 81% initiate breastfeeding
- Only 30% of mothers reach their breastfeeding goals without support.
We Offer information and advice on:
- Normal infant feeding patterns and what to expect
- Latch and positioning
- Breastfeeding challenges
- Navigating return to work or school
BEDHD was recognized by The Michigan Breastfeeding Network in 2022 with Michigan Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace and Outpatient Awards!
Barry-Eaton Baby Café
Baby Café is a FREE informal place where you can meet-up, ask breastfeeding questions, meet other moms, and receive professional lactation care and intervention from Certified Lactation Educators (CLE). WIC enrollment or registration is not required, anyone can attend! Children and significant others are also welcome to join!
Barry County
Date: Tuesdays
Time: 10am to 12pm
Location: Hastings Public Library: 227 E State St, Hastings, MI 49058 (October through May), Tyden Park: Hastings Riverwalk, Hastings, MI 49058 (June through September)
Eaton County
Date: Wednesdays
Time: 10am to 12pm
Location: Charlotte Community Library: 226 Bostwick St S, Charlotte, MI 48813
WIC
WIC offers services to help breastfeeding moms including:
- Free breast pumps and breastfeeding supplies for breastfeeding moms.
- Monday through Friday breastfeeding support from a breastfeeding Peer Counselor.
- After hour breastfeeding support from a WIC Peer Counselor on Tuesdays and Fridays from 5pm-7pm by calling or texting (269) 838-9985.
- Access to a Certified Lactation Educator (CLE) and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) for breastfeeding concerns.
- WIC food packages exclusively for breastfeeding moms.
As your WIC care team, we are commitment to sharing our passion and expertise with you.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Page last updated: [11/20/2025]
Meet Courtney, WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor
Courtney is a proud mom of two little boys, one is five years old, and the other is six months. She breastfed her oldest for 15 months and is currently breastfeeding her youngest, giving her firsthand experience with the joys and challenges of feeding infants.
Outside of work, Courtney enjoys camping, mushroom hunting, participating in community concert bands, and spending time with friends and family over board games.
Courtney’s passion for breastfeeding support began with her sister, who was the first in their family to try breastfeeding and struggled without much support. Through WIC, her sister found the help she needed, and Courtney witnessed her strength, resilience, and the meaningful bonds she built through breastfeeding. That experience inspired Courtney to breastfeed her own children, and her sister became her biggest source of support during her journey.
Now, Courtney is dedicated to offering that same encouragement to other families, especially those who may feel like they don’t have anyone to turn to. Her message for parents is simple and heartfelt: you are not alone, and your worth is not measured in ounces.