Fort Hays State University nursing students attended the proclamation signing with Hays Mayor Eber Phelps proclaiming Hays a "Community Supporting Breastfeeding" on Thursday, Aug. 27. Students went out around the community talking to local businesses about programs like "Breastfeeding Welcome Here" and "Breastfeeding Employee Support Awards."

Hays is one of six Kansas communities to receive recognition by Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition Inc. as a "Community Supporting Breastfeeding." With the help from FHSU nursing students, Hays met the requirements, which are:
• A local breastfeeding coalition
• Peer support groups
• Breastfeeding programs at HaysMed
• Business participation in the "Breastfeeding Welcome Here" program
• A business award program for supporting employees who breastfeed
• Child care providers who complete the "How to Support the Breastfeeding Mother and Family" course