The sites in the de la Montagne local services network (RLS) have once again renewed with success their certification under theBaby-Friendly Initiative (BFI)!The sites, which include the CLSCs de Côte-des-Neiges, Métro and de Parc-Extension, the Côte-des-Neiges Birthing Centre, and the MaisonsBleues, have been certifiedsince 2008. The current BFI certification now lasts until 2024.
The Baby-Friendly Initiative is a certification program developed by the World Health Organization and UNICEF to implement practices that protect, promote, and support breastfeeding. It informs pregnant women and their families on the importance of breastfeeding babies up to two years old and above, and the risks of not doing so.It encourages breastfeeding by avoiding any promotion of breast milk substitutes, pacifiers or baby bottles. Best practices are sharedwith mothers who choose to feed their babies with commercial infant formulas. BFI sites support breastfeeding in its premises, anywhere and anytime, and in a private area if requested.This program is highly recommended by the Montreal Regional Public Health Department and the Ministry of Health and Social Services.