Community Bridges’ Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is set to host its 18th Annual Breastfeeding Walk & Health Fair on Thursday, August 7, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Laurel Park, 301 Center St., Santa Cruz. 

This year’s event will transition from Watsonville to Santa Cruz, bringing the community together to celebrate World Breastfeeding Week and raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding.

In a time when many families may be hesitant to access services for a multitude of reasons, it’s especially important to uplift and provide outreach about WIC’s services. As misinformation and fear persist, Community Bridges WIC Program stands firm in its commitment to ensuring that local families receive the support and resources they need to thrive. 

The 18th annual Breastfeeding Walk & Health Fair is a great event for the entire family, offering education, resources, and fun for all ages. Credit: Community Bridges

By connecting with and engaging families, particularly those who might feel uncertain or excluded, this event serves as a reminder that WIC is here for everyone—offering not just nutrition assistance but also educational support, health services, and a welcoming community for all.

Said Community Bridges Senior Program Director Dana Wagner: “It’s crucial that every family who qualifies for WIC feels empowered and supported in accessing our services. Despite the challenges and uncertainties we face, being together with the community to celebrate this event reminds us all the strength we have when we support one another. It’s truly rewarding to see families come together, share resources, and connect with the support they need during these difficult times.”

A Tradition of Support and Celebration

The Breastfeeding Walk & Health Fair has been a cherished tradition for nearly two decades, providing a platform for families to access resources, support, and information about breastfeeding. Participants can look forward to a variety of activities, including:

  • Rally-style Walk: A community walk around Laurel Park to show support for breastfeeding families.
  • Live Music: Enjoy tunes from a live DJ, creating a festive atmosphere.
  • Community Resource Booths: Local organizations will provide information and services related to family health and wellness.
  • Healthy Snacks: Complimentary refreshments to keep attendees energized.
  • Free T-shirts and Raffle Prizes: Exclusive event merchandise and chances to win prizes.
  • Breast Milk Donation Site: An opportunity to support the community by donating breast milk.
Community Bridges’ WIC Program serves 550 pregnant women each month at sites in Watsonville, Santa Cruz and the San Lorenzo Valley. Credit: Community Bridges

Additionally, the City and County of Santa Cruz will honor Breastfeeding Awareness Month with official proclamations, and a local employer will be recognized for providing lactation accommodations to their breastfeeding employees.

A Legacy of Impact

Since its inception, the WIC program has been instrumental in supporting the health and well-being of families in Santa Cruz County, the Pajaro Valley, and neighboring communities.

Serving approximately 550 pregnant women, 800 breastfeeding women, 1,100 infants, and 3,800 children under five each month, WIC provides essential nutrition, education, and breastfeeding support. The program has consistently achieved breastfeeding rates above state averages, with 36% of mothers exclusively breastfeeding at six months and 60% continuing at one year.

Community Bridges WIC Program provides a multitude of services to over 800 breastfeeding women, 1,100 infants and 3,800 children under 5 each month. Credit: Community Bridges

The Breastfeeding Walk & Health Fair itself has grown exponentially over the years, evolving from a small, local gathering into a key community event. Originally held at Community Bridges headquarters to showcase the WIC program’s lactation center and Peer Counseling program, the event began with just a handful of partner tables and attracted about 35-40 attendees.

As the community interest grew, the event expanded to the Watsonville City Plaza, where it continued to attract a larger crowd. With WIC Program Director Dana Wagner serving as the Chair of the Santa Cruz County Breastfeeding Coalition, the event’s reach and impact broadened through strategic partnerships, amplifying awareness of breastfeeding support and the resources available for families.

Now, the 18th Annual Breastfeeding Walk & Health Fair is a celebration of the ongoing progress made in supporting families through education, resources, and community connections. 

Join the Celebration

The 18th Annual Breastfeeding Walk & Health Fair is open to all families and community members. Whether you’re a new parent, expecting, or simply interested in supporting breastfeeding families, this event offers a welcoming environment to learn, connect, and celebrate.

For more information or inquiries, please contact Erika Costanzo at erikac@cbridges.org.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a community that values and supports the health and well-being of families. Join us on August 7 at Laurel Park for an afternoon of fun, learning, and celebration!

more from community bridges