Local WIC agencies nationally recognized

Local WIC agencies nationally recognized

August 21, 2024

Colorado WIC is thrilled to announce that three local agencies have received the prestigious WIC Breastfeeding Award of Excellence from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for their outstanding breastfeeding support. WIC is federally known as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

The award is given at three levels of performance: Gold, Premier, and Elite. These levels recognize agencies at various stages of implementing exemplary breastfeeding promotion and support practices.

Local agencies that have operated a Breastfeeding Peer Counseling (BFPC) program for at least one year and meet specific requirements may apply for any award level. Nine local agencies operate BFPC programs; however, partnerships between local agencies allow all Colorado WIC clients to access this invaluable support.

During National WIC Breastfeeding Week and World Breastfeeding Week (August 1 - 7, 2024), the USDA recognized the following Colorado WIC programs:

  • Adams County Health Department WIC Program: Gold Award

  • Arapahoe County Public Health Department WIC Program: Premier Award 

  • Larimer Department of Public Health & Environment WIC Program: Premier Award 


“We are incredibly proud of these programs for achieving nationwide recognition,” shared Heidi Hoffman, Colorado WIC Director. “These local agencies have once again demonstrated dedication and excellence in supporting Colorado WIC clients with their breastfeeding decisions and successes. We’re proud to recognize the staff who provide accurate information, peer support, resources, breast pumps, and referrals to families during a critical period of growth, development, and bonding.” 

Awards are valid for four years, and past recipients include: Denver Health (2015 Gold, 2021 Premiere), El Paso County (2018 Gold, 2021 Premiere), Jefferson County (2017 Gold, 2019 & 2023 Premiere), Larimer County (2021 Gold), Pueblo County (2018 Gold, 2022 Premiere), Sunrise Community Health (2017 Gold, 2018 & 2022 Premiere), and Tri-County Health Department (2015 Gold, 2019 Premiere).

This blog post was written and provided by Colorado WIC.