NCBfC SAFE Infant Feeding
in Emergencies

1. Are there local accommodations?

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Here are links to some housing options in the area. The accommodations are close to the Forgery, where you will meet each morning. (See question 2 below for more information about the Forgery.)

There also are four spots on the registration form for shared housing. Those choosing the shared accommodations will be staying in a house with the trainers.

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• Airbnb Rustic Royce Lodge (https://www.airbnb.com/slink/LiEZfBVC)

• Airbnb Rustic Brown Bungalow (https://www.airbnb.com/slink/yCkj0xn5)

• Airbnb Rustic Birch Cabin (https://www.airbnb.com/slink/4Ntt5VdZ)

• Hotel Fairfield Inn & Suites Asheville Weaverville by Marriott 

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2. Where do we meet?

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We meet at The Forgery, 19 Young Rd, Weaverville, NC 28787. 

Note: The address 21 Young Rd may work better with some GPS systems. Both addresses are within the same welcoming area.​

• The first day, either Sunday or Wednesday depending on your cohort, is a half-day, beginning at 1 pm at the Forgery for orientation and introductions.

• The next three days start at the Forgery at 9:30 am with orientation training, and then you will travel to different locations with a partner for fieldwork. The day ends at approximately 5 pm.

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3. What to bring and wear?​

• Bring an ID.  

• Wear warm comfortable clothes and shoes. You will be standing up most of the day.

• Remember to layer. Temperatures can vary from 40s/low 50s to the teens even during the colder months. You also will be in-and-out of cars throughout the day.

• Bring gloves that you can work in.

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4. What about food?​

• Please shop locally as much as possible.

  • Restaurants and grocery stores are open.

  • Weaverville is ready and happy to serve the community.

• Remember to stay hydrated! ​

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5. What is the purpose of the SAFE Training?​

The SAFE Training program equips participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to support safe infant and young child feeding in emergencies (IYCF-E). Through this immersive experience, you'll learn how to provide critical support to families affected by disasters, such as Hurricane Helene, and gain tools to apply to future emergency response scenarios.

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6. Who is this training designed for?

This training is ideal for healthcare providers, community advocates, lactation consultants, support staff, and anyone interested in supporting infant feeding during emergencies.

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7. What will I be doing during the training?

The training includes a mix of foundational learning modules, hands-on activities, and real-world fieldwork. You’ll engage in sessions such as feeding support triage, water safety, risk mitigation, hand expression, and cup feeding.

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8. Do I need to complete anything before arriving?

Yes, participants are required to complete two online modules prior to the training. These modules take approximately 45-60 minutes each and will count toward your continuing education credits. Links and QR codes will be e-mailed and provided in your learning packet.

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9. What topics will I learn during the training?​

• Infant Feeding Support Triage, Assessment, and Counseling

• Water Safety and Safe Handling of Feeding Supplies

• Strategies for Mitigating Risks

• Creating Safer Spaces for Support

• Hand Expression

• Cup Feeding

• And so much more

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10. What is the structure of the training?

The training is spread over 3.5 days.

• First day is a half-day, beginning in the afternoon at 1 pm with orientation and introductions. 

• The next two days feature morning sessions starting at 9:30 am, followed by fieldwork in the afternoon.

• Final day includes a morning debrief at 9:30am, followed by fieldwork in the afternoon.

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11. What can I expect from the fieldwork?

• During fieldwork, participants will gain hands-on experience providing support to families in the community. Activities may include counseling caregivers, assessing feeding supplies, and creating safe spaces for infant feeding.

• Continuing Education Credits

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12. Can returning participants earn credits?

Returning participants will not receive additional credits for repeated sessions but will benefit from advanced live field experiences and Level 2 certification of completion.

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13. What support will be available during the training?

During the SAFE Training, you will have access to a robust support system designed to ensure a smooth and effective learning experience.

• Boots on the Ground Coordinator: A local coordinator will be on-site to direct you to where you need to go for in-person activities and ensure logistics run smoothly.

• Preceptors: Experienced trainers and preceptors will provide hands-on guidance and oversee your training activities throughout the program.

• Guest Experts: Experts from around the world will join us to share their knowledge and insights, enriching your learning experience.

• Digital Coordinator: A dedicated digital coordinator will be available by phone throughout the day to answer any questions and provide remote support.

• GroupMe Messaging: A GroupMe text message thread has been set up to facilitate communication. Through this platform, you can connect with other trainees, trainers, and coordinators to ask questions, share updates, and collaborate in real time.