The Gift (Guided Infant Feeding Techniques) is a quality improvement and certification program for Louisiana birthing facilities that is based on the best practice model to increase breastfeeding initiation, duration and support. Health care providers play a critical role in the establishment of breastfeeding and this program helps to assure that the birthing facility’s criteria for educating new parents and health care staff on the techniques and importance of breastfeeding have been met. In addition, The Gift is a tool for facilities to enhance their breastfeeding services and promote breastfeeding as the normal and preferred method of infant feeding. Designation as Gift Certified requires a facility to demonstrate that it has met the “Ten Steps to a Healthy, Breastfed Baby.”
How to Apply
To apply for Gift Certification, fill out the simple application provided and submit it to the Louisiana Maternal and Child Health Coalition.
The Gift is based on the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) and the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. “The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is a global program sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to encourage and recognize hospitals and birthing centers that offer an optimal level of care for lactation” (www.babyfriendlyusa.org). What’s the difference between the BFHI and The Gift? Click here
Why should my facility become Gift Certified?
By becoming Gift Certified, birthing facilities can improve their mPINC score (CDC National Survey of Maternity Practices in Infant Nutrition and Care), increase breastfeeding rates, and create an optimal environment for breastfeeding.
Upon becoming Gift Certified, your facility will receive:
- Statewide recognition as a birthing facility that successfully protects, promotes, and supports breastfeeding
- A Golden Gift Breastfeeding Award
- Promotional materials with The Gift logo and the Ten Steps that support your new certification
Baton Rouge General's Gift Certification award presentation
East Jefferson General Hospital earned their Gift Certification in 2007
Become a Gift Certified facility today and be a part of this important statewide initiative to improve the health of Louisiana’s women and children.