How to Connect with a Peer Counselor

How can I sign up and what can I expect from this service?

Breastfeeding Peer Counselors (BFPCs) work with WIC participants to provide support throughout pregnancy and your baby’s first year. WIC staff will explain the BFPC program and offer you a referral to join. Simply accept the referral, and you will be assigned a BFPC who serves your WIC clinic. 

Once referred, your BFPC will reach out within a few days. Text is the primary method of communication, but phone calls and emails can also be used if you prefer. This means you have access to 24/7 support, including answers to your questions and encouragement to keep you motivated through challenging times.

During Pregnancy

Through research and experience, the BFPC program has identified the most important topics to cover during pregnancy to help expecting mothers feel confident before meeting their baby. This information is spread out through several contacts. This information is shared through multiple text messages scheduled according to your estimated due date. 

• The closer you are to delivery, the more frequent the messages.
• Moms referred early in pregnancy receive contacts spaced farther apart.

Each routine message includes:

• Helpful information on a key breastfeeding topic 
• Infographics to reinforce the information (many moms save these to their phones for later reference)
• Some messages contain links to research-based articles on our website for more detailed guidance

Messages come from: 605-789-4357

Tip: Save this number as “Breastfeeding Support” to prevent texts from being flagged as spam.

Example Contact:

 

After Delivery

Once your baby is born, your BFPC will send information tailored to the phase of breastfeeding you are experiencing. Letting your BFPC know when you delivered ensures you receive the most timely guidance. 

You will receive support on topics like: 

• The early days 
• Milk “coming in” 
• Growth spurts
• Developmental milestones affecting breastfeeding 

Your BFPC will provide support as long as you are breastfeeding or pumping at least once per day, up to your baby’s first year.

Example Contact:

Availability & Personalized Support

You are encouraged to contact your BFPC anytime with questions or for information specific to your situation. All guidance is tailored to your needs, and services are confidential, only shared with WIC staff when necessary to support your breastfeeding plan.

BFPCs are available 24/7 and will respond as quickly as possible.

Not a fan of texting? No problem! BFPCs can also provide support via email or schedule a phone conversation at a time that works for you.

Ways to Connect

Ask WIC staff for more info or contact a BFPC directly by:

PHONE: [phone]-MILK (6455)

TEXT: 605-789-HELP (4357)

EMAIL: [e-mail]

ONLINE: southdakotabreastfeeding.com

With your peer counselor by your side, you can expect personalized guidance, answers to your questions, and encouragement whenever you need it, helping you feel prepared and confident throughout your breastfeeding journey.