Baby-Friendly Initiative Ontario (BFION) began in 2000 in response to a realization that there was a need for provincial support for the promotion of evidence based, supportive breastfeeding practices in Ontario. BFION has grown from the original 14 volunteers to individual and group memberships from across the province and beyond. Members are dedicated to the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding and informed decision making when the feeding of infant formula is being considered.
The Breastfeeding Committee for Canada (BCC) provides national leadership for the Baby-Friendly Initiative. In partnership with the BCC, BFION supports hospitals, birthing centres and community health services in the province to protect, promote and support breastfeeding through the implementation of the BCC’s Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding in Canada.
Members of BFION are able to network with other members, share information and resources through email bulletins, social media, discussions at meetings, and a member's only page on our website. They also are able to enjoy a discounted rate if they attend BFION events such as the BFION Expo.
Vision
Ontario has a Baby-Friendly culture
Mission
To protect, promote, and support breastfeeding in Ontario through the adoption, implementation and maintenance of the Baby‐Friendly Initiative (BFI).
Goals
To support the implementation of BFI best practices across Ontario.
To increase the number of hospitals and community health services involved in the implementation of the BFI.
To increase the number of BFI designated hospitals and community health services.
To support BFI designated hospitals and community health services to maintain their BFI designation.
History
BFION's Inception and Journey - 25th Anniversary PowerPoint Presentation
Please visit our You Tube channel for a narrated copy of this presentation. Click here.
25th Anniversary Celebration Events
An invitation went to parents who gave birth in Ontario about 25 years ago (2000) to share their experience. We interviewed some parents and other parents completed our survey. The findings can be found in the Family Forum on this website.
25th Anniversary Celebration Resources
Posters
Structure
Breastfeeding Committee for Canada Organogram 2024
BFI Ontario Structure 2026
