CPS Concludes World Breastfeeding Week 2026 with successful Moms’ Health Fair

GREAT BAY--Collective Prevention Services (CPS) has concluded its 2026 World Breastfeeding Week activities following a series of community initiatives that culminated with the third annual Moms’ Health Fair on Saturday, August 8.

This year’s observance was held under the theme “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” highlighting the importance of building on existing support systems for mothers, children and families throughout the community.

CPS participated in World Breastfeeding Week in collaboration with the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) and the White and Yellow Cross Care Foundation (WYCCF). While each organization coordinated its own activities, CPS also participated in partner-led events during the week, including SMMC’s Sip & Paint and WYCCF’s Story Time.

As part of its own activities, CPS organized a Breastfeeding Awareness Campaign and the third annual Moms’ Health Fair.

The awareness campaign ran from July 25 through August 7 and encouraged mothers to share breastfeeding photos on Facebook, tag Collective Prevention Services and encourage family and friends to engage with their posts. Yosheira Euson recorded the highest engagement with 325 likes and received a brunch for two courtesy of Oyster Pond Beach Resort/Infinity Restaurant. The prize was presented during the Moms’ Health Fair.

CPS said it hopes to further develop the awareness initiative in the coming years and encourage even greater community participation in activities that promote breastfeeding and maternal and child health.

The Moms’ Health Fair was held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Aleeze Convention Center and brought together organizations and professionals offering information, guidance and support to parents, children and families at different stages of their parenting journey.

A total of 23 vendors registered for the fair, with 19 participating on the day. Visitors were able to interact directly with service providers, ask questions, learn about available resources and receive guidance on accessing services in the community.

The event also combined professional guidance with personal experiences from mothers, providing attendees with practical information on breastfeeding, parenting and overall well-being.

Stichting Building Bridges Saving Lives intern midwife Gesner-Orlando Simon addressed breastfeeding challenges and the importance of proper attachment. He also provided practical guidance on positioning and supporting effective breastfeeding.

Pediatric Physical Therapist Juanita Tjon-A-Sam presented on “No Physical Health Without Mental Health,” focusing on the connection between physical and mental well-being and the importance of a supportive environment to the healthy development of both mother and child.

The program also featured Ramonda Hanze, Stephanie Carty and Rebecca Brent, who shared their individual breastfeeding experiences. Their contributions offered a personal perspective on the difference between learning about breastfeeding in theory and experiencing the realities, challenges and rewards firsthand.

Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina and Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor Claret Connor attended the Moms’ Health Fair, with Minister Connor delivering a brief welcome address.

CPS said the 2026 observance again demonstrated the value of bringing information, professional guidance, community services and personal experiences together in one setting, giving families an opportunity to better understand the support and resources available to them.

The organization expressed appreciation to its collaborators, sponsors, vendors, speakers, volunteers, participating mothers, staff members and members of the public who contributed to the success of World Breastfeeding Week 2026.

CPS remains committed to promoting breastfeeding, supporting parents and caregivers, and strengthening the community systems that help children receive a healthy and sustainable start in life.

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