Fraser Health supports a network of four Breastfeeding and Chestfeeding Cafés where parents can connect with trained volunteers and other families in a welcoming, supportive space.
(Photo) Paige Mackintosh, public health nurse, Fraser Health
Breastfeeding or chestfeeding can be a rewarding and meaningful experience for both parents and babies, especially when the right support is available. In those early days, having a safe, welcoming space to ask questions and feel understood can make all the difference.
That's where Breastfeeding and Chestfeeding Cafés come in. Delivered by peer volunteers, the cafés offer empathy, encouragement and shared wisdom from others who've been through similar experiences. Whether it's navigating challenges or celebrating small wins, knowing you're not alone can be incredibly empowering.
Fraser Health’s Best Beginnings and Enhanced Family Visiting nurses provide a 15-hour training program to peer volunteers to run the Breastfeeding and Chestfeeding Cafés. The volunteers complete breastfeeding and chestfeeding education through their local public health unit and go on to lead each group, offering guidance, connection and shared experience.
"We see peer support as a powerful way to build confidence and connection among new parents," says Paige Mackintosh, public health nurse, Fraser Health. "Our goal through training is to equip volunteers with the knowledge and tools they need to create a safe, welcoming space where families feel heard and supported."
Once trained, peer volunteers and the on-site lead run the groups independently, with Fraser Health remaining in a supportive role. Public health nurses check in periodically to ensure everything is going well, answer questions and offer ongoing guidance as needed.
Volunteers are trained to provide evidence-based information, use active listening to navigate difficult conversations and encourage participants to contact public health nurses when needed. The volunteers are parents themselves and provide support by listening, sharing their experiences and offering practical advice.
“These groups are about more than just infant feeding,” says Andrea Singh, project leader, Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI), Public and Population Health, Fraser Health. “They are welcoming spaces where parents can build confidence, ask questions and feel supported.”
The cafés offer a supportive space for parents to connect, ask questions and share experiences, while reducing isolation and helping to support mental well-being. Topics include latching, returning to work, starting solids and maintaining milk supply.
“Those early months can feel lonely and can be challenging to navigate, as each parent’s feeding journey can differ from child to child and their first time,” Andrea adds. “The cafés help parents feel less alone and more connected. It is a simple but meaningful way to build community.”
There are currently four Breastfeeding and Chestfeeding Cafés in Fraser Health, located in Langley, Abbotsford and Maple Ridge. Whether you’re looking for reassurance, answers or simply time with others who understand, these cafés offer a welcoming and supportive space to connect.
Café schedule:
- Langley:
- Every Monday, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Family Place South, 5339 207 Street
- Every Thursday, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Heritage School House – Willoughby Elementary, 20766 80th Avenue
- Abbotsford: Every Monday (except stat holidays), 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Hope for Women (a women only space), Unit 2 – 32700 George Ferguson Way
- Maple Ridge: Every Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., St. George’s Church, 23500 Dewdney Trunk Road
World Breastfeeding Week takes place in the first week of August and highlights the importance of building sustainable support systems for families.
For more information about breastfeeding and chestfeeding, please visit fraserhealth.ca/breastfeeding or fraserhealth.ca/chestfeeding.
