Ryke’s Bakery, Catering & Cafe Honored as Muskegon County Breastfeeding-Friendly Business of the Year

Muskegon, MI – The Muskegon County Breastfeeding Coalition awarded the honor of “Breastfeeding-Friendly Business of the Year” to Ryke’s Bakery, Catering and Cafe today at the Great Start Muskegon Legislative Meet and Greet.

Nominations were accepted throughout the month of August for Breastfeeding Awareness Month. To be considered breastfeeding friendly, the business must make it easy for women returning to work to continue nursing their infants.

The Ryke’s nomination emphasized their flexible scheduling for breastfeeding moms and their supportive environment, which includes a separate private space for employees to pump. Ryke’s was also nominated in 2013 and designated as one of Muskegon County’s Breastfeeding-Friendly businesses.

In addition, Senator Geoff Hansen will be honored as a “Legislative Friend” in recognition for his work to get breast pumps covered by Medicaid. Breast pumps are already covered by other insurances.

Any business that would like to be designated as or become Breastfeeding-Friendly is encouraged to contact Public Health Muskegon County at (231) 724-1264 or email publichealth@co.muskegon.mi.us.

Several organizations have partnered to promote and offer this award. The Muskegon County Breastfeeding Coalition is a collaborative group of organizations and individuals who are dedicated to promoting breastfeeding in Muskegon County. The Great Start Collaborative works to assure that all children will enter kindergarten safe, healthy and eager to succeed in school and in life. In addition, the 1 in 21 Healthy Muskegon County Initiative, was also a partner and recognizes the link between breastfeeding and reducing obesity.