The Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition (KBC) awarded $4,000 in educational scholarships to support Latinx and Black individuals to provide lactation support in their communities.

We have made great strides in Kansas with over 90% of families choosing to breastfeed.  Yet, breastfeeding rates amongst our communities of color are nearly 9% lower than the state average. There should not be gaps in breastfeeding rates between racial and ethnic groups. We are all Kansans.

The KBC is committed to addressing racial disparities in breastfeeding by identifying, encouraging, and supporting breastfeeding advocates in new and innovative ways. In alignment with this goal, the KBC is pleased to award $4,000 in scholarships to support aspiring Latinx and Black lactation support providers in Topeka (2), Wichita (1) and Dodge City (1).

These scholars provided written statements sharing their vision and passion for helping diverse families. They have demonstrated their commitment to support these communities by seeking to further their education in the lactation field.

“Breastfeeding is important for the health and wellbeing of both the parent and the child. We are excited to work with these individuals to build a diverse lactation support workforce so families in Kansas can receive culturally congruent care,” said Stephanne Rupnicki, Chair of the KBC Board of Directors.

The KBC will continue to support these scholarship recipients in the pursuit of their goals. The KBC hopes to find more ways to contribute to equity in breastfeeding for all Kansans.