Pictured from left to right are Ava aldermen Stan Lovan and Jaclyn “Nikki” Stanifer-Lovan, Lydia Jahrling of the Douglas County Health Department WIC program, Mayor Kirk Pueppke, Board of Aldermen President Noel Dye and Alderman Billy Stewart. The city proclaimed August 2026 as Breastfeeding Awareness Month, recognizing the benefits of breastfeeding and the importance of reliable infant care and feeding information.
AVA, Mo. — The City of Ava has proclaimed August 2026 as Breastfeeding Awareness Month, recognizing the health, developmental and economic benefits associated with breastfeeding.
Mayor Kirk Pueppke signed the proclamation Tuesday, July 28, with Board of Aldermen President Noel Dye, aldermen Stan Lovan, Jaclyn “Nikki” Stanifer-Lovan and Billy Stewart, and Lydia Jahrling of the Douglas County Health Department WIC program in attendance.
The proclamation states that human milk supports infant growth and development while providing nutrition and protection against certain infections and allergies. It also notes that breastfeeding can promote bonding between mothers and infants.
According to the proclamation, breastfeeding may contribute to healthier mothers, lower healthcare costs for infants, stronger family bonds and reduced waste. It is also described as an economical feeding option that provides benefits at little or no cost.
The proclamation cites support for breastfeeding from several medical and health organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Academy of Family Physicians, UNICEF and the World Health Organization.
World Breastfeeding Week will be observed Aug. 1 through Aug. 7. The annual observance is coordinated by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action in partnership with the World Health Organization and UNICEF.
The proclamation also emphasizes the importance of providing Ava families with reliable information so they can make informed decisions about the care and feeding of their infants.
