Important Programs for Moms and Babies Included in Congressional Budget Deal
Over the weekend, Congress announced they had reached a deal to continue funding for critical federal programs through September 30, 2020, averting another government shutdown. 1,000 Days is pleased that many of our priorities to better support the nutrition and well-being of moms and babies are included in the agreement.
Here are a few of the wins included:
- Funding for Global nutrition programs was increased to $150 million, helping to ensure more moms and their young children can have a healthy 1,000-days;
- The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) will receive $6 billion in funding and, crucially, the Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program will receive full funding of $90 million for the first time. WIC helps moms and young children access the nutritious food necessary for a healthy 1,000-day window, as well as critical supports like nutrition education and breastfeeding counseling;
- CDC’s Hospitals Supporting Breastfeeding program saw a small increase after years of flat funding. The agreement includes $9 million to provide hospitals and states with tools and assistance to support breastfeeding, including the implementation of baby-friendly best practices;
- And additional funding to improve maternal and child health for families in the US and around the world was included.
1,000 Days will continue to lift up the voices, experiences and needs of moms and their young children in the United States and around the world. We appreciate the continued support from lawmakers on both sides of the political aisle to ensuring all moms and babies can have a healthy 1,000-day window and beyond.