La Leche League Canada

La Leche League Canada (LLLC) is a registered Canadian nonprofit organization and charity dedicated to providing peer-to-peer support and education on breastfeeding, chestfeeding, and human milk feeding to expectant parents, new families, and beyond. Established as a national organization, LLLC operates with over 400 accredited volunteer Leaders who facilitate more than 200 groups across Canada, offering free, evidence-based breastfeeding support and resources for families[1][4].

Mission and Objectives

The mission of La Leche League Canada is to encourage, promote, and provide breastfeeding, chestfeeding, and human milk feeding support and educational opportunities as an important contribution to the health of children, families, and society[4].

Programs and Services

LLLC Leaders are parents who have personally breastfed or chestfed their own children for at least one year and who have undergone detailed training to become accredited. These Leaders provide compassionate, up-to-date, scientifically supported information through various formats including in-person meetings, telephone support, online engagement, and informal group meetings. They tailor their support to the unique needs of the communities they serve[1][5].

• Peer Support: One-on-one and group-based peer support helps parents navigate the challenges and joys of breastfeeding and chestfeeding.
• Educational Meetings: Regular discussion-style monthly meetings address practical, physical, and emotional aspects of breastfeeding, as well as related topics such as nutrition, parenting, and birth.
• Resources: LLLC maintains an extensive lending library of books and educational materials relevant to breastfeeding and parenting.
• Health Care Provider Education: LLLC organizes seminars and workshops to enhance professional knowledge about lactation and the benefits of human milk for healthcare providers throughout Canada[1][4].

Reach and Impact

La Leche League Canada supports approximately 50,000 parents annually through its telephone referral line, group meetings, and online resources. It is an integral part of La Leche League International, linking Canadian families to a global network committed to breastfeeding support worldwide[1][4].

Organizational Structure and Governance

LLLC operates as a volunteer-driven organization supported by donors and governed under Canadian charitable regulations. It is registered under the business number 119003812RR0001 and recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency as a registered charity. The organization relies on donations and volunteer involvement to sustain its services[4].

Values and Inclusivity

LLLC emphasizes inclusivity and respect, welcoming all families regardless of their terminology or breastfeeding experiences. The organization asserts that every parent knows their baby best and that supportive community connections are essential for successful breastfeeding relationships[1][2].

La Leche League Canada continues to be a trusted resource for families and healthcare providers nationwide, promoting the health and well-being of children and families through breastfeeding support and education.