By Ryan Duey

The Republic County Health Department has received the Gold Level “Breastfeeding Employees Support Award” from the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition and its Business Case for Breastfeeding program.

The award is based on proven and established standards to benefit employers and employees. It recognizes businesses that provide support services to their breastfeeding employees, including education and the time and space for employees to nurse or pump breastmilk at their workplace. The award, the top ranking of three sponsored by the Coalition, was presented by Brenda Bandy, Executive Director of the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition.

According to Bandy, the Republic County Health Department received the award for achieving a high level of support to their employees as outlined in the Coalition’s criteria. She said they provide a “gold level” pumping room, allow flexible time to pump, and have a written policy of breastfeeding support.