Episcopal Health Services Celebrates World Breastfeeding Week

Far Rockaway, New York, August 18, 2025 — Episcopal Health Services (EHS) celebrated World Breastfeeding Week on Aug. 7 with an interactive gathering at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, bringing together families, health care professionals and community members for an afternoon of learning and connection.

Led by EHS’s Debbie Steger Cohen, RN, a board-certified lactation consultant, the program featured a lively Jeopardy-style game that challenged attendees on topics such as the benefits of breastfeeding, and infant and maternal nutrition.

“At EHS, we are committed to supporting breastfeeding not only within the hospital, but also as a community initiative,” said Steger Cohen. “With our new Labor and Delivery Suite and recent Baby-Friendly® redesignation, families can count on the highest level of maternal and child care at EHS – no matter who they are or how they choose to feed their baby.”

Throughout the day, participants heard from a range of EHS experts. Nurse educator Devena Sallah, RN, answered questions about breastfeeding, while Te-Ana Souffrant, Perinatal Coordination Manager, discussed the hospital’s doula services and how they support expectant mothers. Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Melissa Bistricer spoke about the importance of a balanced diet while breastfeeding, and the Patient Experience team explained their role in guiding and supporting patients throughout their care. Cynthia Criss, DO, Chair of Pediatrics, was also on hand to engage with attendees.

The celebration comes as EHS was recently redesignated as a Baby-Friendly Hospital, an international recognition for evidence-based maternity care that supports breast feeding and mother-baby bonding.

“This redesignation affirms our dedication to practices that foster strong mother-baby connections and support successful breastfeeding,” said Jacqueline Marecheau, MD, FACOG, Chair of OBGYN at EHS. “Through community outreach and education, our mission extends beyond the hospital to provide families with the knowledge and resources they need for lifelong health and wellness.”

“Breastfeeding is one of the most impactful early health decisions a family can make,” said Jameela Yusuff, MD MPH MS FACP, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at EHS. “By investing in education, compassionate care, and supportive environments, we give every child the best possible start in life and every parent the confidence to make informed choices.”

Following the program, attendees toured EHS’s new Labor and Delivery Suite, which opened today, Aug. 18. The suite features six spacious private rooms with breathtaking ocean views, advanced operating rooms, recovery and triage areas, and other modern amenities.