Mission, Goals, Activities

The Breastfeeding Coalition of Washington (BCW) is a statewide coalition comprised ~22 local coalitions working together to promote, protect and support breastfeeding as a vital part of the health and development of children and families.

The BCW is a program of WithinReach and receives funding from the Washington State Department of Health.

Our Goals and Activities

The goals of the Breastfeeding Coalition of Washington are to coordinate statewide efforts to:

• Protect and promote a public environment supportive and accepting of breastfeeding.
• Increase the incidence and duration of breastfeeding.
• Provide up-to-date referral and educational materials to healthcare professionals, organizations and the community at large about breastfeeding.
• Plan and promote annual World Breastfeeding Week Activities.
• Promote better communication between and among coalition members and member organizations.
• Affect policies in workplaces, educational institutions and childcare facilities to support breastfeeding families.
• Conduct all activities and advocacy in a way that is culturally relevant and sensitive.

The BCW in conjunction with WithinReach, provides breastfeeding education materials, referrals and resources.

Additionally, the BCW offers a free newsletter, Breastfeeding Matters and free membership. BCW meetings are open to all interested parties and local coalitions provide opportunities to work on local outreach activities and projects.

The BCW welcomes interested individuals and organizations to join our breastfeeding promotion efforts. For more information or to get involved, call Kimberly Radtke, the Breastfeeding Coalition of Washington, Program Coordinator at kimr@withinreachwa.org or 206.281.8032.