The Fairfax County Health Department’s Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program is the recipient of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2026 Gold Breastfeeding Award of Excellence. The award recognizes Fairfax County’s WIC program for demonstrating excellence in breastfeeding support practices and for its commitment in promoting breastfeeding through education, advocacy and its successful peer counseling program. 

The award was presented during a virtual awards ceremony with the USDA and the Virginia Department of Health on August 18, coinciding with Breastfeeding Awareness Month.  

Fairfax County’s WIC program is being honored for its leadership in assisting WIC participants breastfeed successfully. Peer counselors receive specialized training and offer practical tips, encouragement and guidance to help families navigate breastfeeding challenges. 

“Our peer counselors form a trusted network of dedicated individuals who offer guidance, understanding and lived experience,” said Gloria Lobato, Breastfeeding Coordinator with the Fairfax County WIC program. “Their support is central to helping families thrive and reach their breastfeeding goals.”

The Fairfax County Health Department administers the WIC program in the Fairfax Health District. The program provides nutritional support to pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women; infants; and children up to age five. WIC staff provide nutrition education, breastfeeding support, access to healthy food benefits, and referrals to county resources for eligible individuals.

Fairfax County WIC Program by the Numbers 

• 11,100 WIC participants in May 2026
• Seventy-nine percent of WIC postpartum clients breastfeed
• Fairfax county operates 5 WIC sites open Monday - Friday, and 2 satellite clinics 

The USDA’s WIC Breastfeeding Award of Excellence program recognizes local agencies that demonstrate outstanding achievement in promoting and supporting breastfeeding. USDA offers three Award categories: Gold, Premier and Elite. The WIC Breastfeeding Model for Peer Counseling is an evidence-based program framework designed to improve breastfeeding initiation and duration among program participants.

The Virginia Department of Health recommends that infants breastfeed exclusively for the first six months of life, with a gradual introduction of solid foods. It is also recommended that infants continue to be breastfed for two years and beyond, as long as mutually desired.

For more information about the WIC program and to see the full list of Fairfax County WIC locations, please visit the WIC webpage.