(September 19, 2003)
The Allegheny County Health Department today announced that FedEx Ground in Moon is the winner of its 8th annual Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace Award.

"Our award recognizes employers that offer breastfeeding moms a supportive work environment that makes it possible for them to continue nursing when they return to work after giving birth," said County Health Director Dr. Bruce W. Dixon.

While 64% of moms breastfeed at birth, just 29% still do so six months later, often because their employer does not provide the kind of support they need to pump and store breast milk at work.

FedEx Ground, North America's second largest provider of small-package ground delivery service, offers employees the opportunity to reserve time in the company's Personal Use Room. The room has been designed to convey a home-like atmosphere and is furnished with couches, a recliner and dimmable lighting. In addition to breastfeeding moms, employees who are ill, injured or self-administer medication are eligible to use this area.

"FedEx Ground understands that to attract and retain a world class workforce, we must continually find ways to enrich the workplace to meet their needs," says Senior Vice President of Human Resources, Lee Holly. "Our Personal Use Room is just another example of why FedEx is routinely named one of America's best places to work."

The Health Department instituted the award in 1996 to honor employers who are supportive and encourage others to make their workplaces more breastfeeding friendly.

Past winners of the award are Nova Chemicals, Development Dimensions International, PNC Financial Services Group, Crouse & Company, Magee-Womens Hospital, Sewickley Valley Hospital, Deloitte Consulting Group, Mellon Bank and Price and Associates.

Visit the Health Department's Home Page.

PHOTO-OPS:
The award will be presented at 2 pm on Tuesday, September 23 at Fedex Ground, 1000 Fedex Drive, Moon. Reporters and photographers are invited to cover the event and tour Fedex Ground's facilities. Please call the Health Department's Public Information Office at 412-578-8004, if you plan to attend.