WIC: Supporting Women, Infants, and Children
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides nutrition education, healthy foods, and health care referrals to eligible families.
6.2 million
Participants served monthly in the United States
1 in 2
Infants in the U.S. participate in WIC
14%
Reduction in preterm births among WIC participants
How WIC Works
WIC provides essential nutrition assistance to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, and to infants and children up to age five. Here's how it works:
- Check your eligibility based on categorical, income, and nutritional risk criteria
- Apply for WIC benefits through your state or local WIC agency
- Complete a nutrition assessment with a WIC professional
- Receive WIC benefits, typically through an EBT card or vouchers
- Use your benefits to purchase approved nutritious foods at authorized retailers
WIC Eligibility
WIC eligibility is based on several factors, including:
- Categorical requirements (pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5)
- Income eligibility (generally at or below 185% of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines)
- State residency
- Nutritional risk assessment by a health professional
Eligibility requirements may vary slightly by state, so it's important to check your specific state's guidelines.
WIC Benefits
WIC provides several benefits, including:
- Supplemental nutritious foods
- Nutrition education and counseling
- Breastfeeding support
- Screening and referrals to other health, welfare, and social services
- Iron-fortified infant formula when needed
WIC Nutrition Education
WIC provides nutrition education to help families make informed choices about food and health. This education covers:
- Healthy eating during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Proper infant feeding techniques
- Child nutrition and development
- Meal planning and budgeting for nutritious foods
- Importance of physical activity
Frequently Asked Questions
Can fathers or other caregivers apply for WIC?
Yes, fathers, grandparents, foster parents, or other legal guardians of children under 5 can apply for WIC on behalf of their children.
How long can I receive WIC benefits?
Pregnant women can receive benefits throughout pregnancy and up to 6 weeks after birth. Breastfeeding women can participate up to 1 year postpartum. Non-breastfeeding women can participate up to 6 months postpartum. Infants can receive benefits up to their first birthday, and children up to their fifth birthday.
What foods can I get with WIC benefits?
WIC provides nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, milk, cheese, eggs, peanut butter, beans, and infant formula. The specific food package varies based on the participant's category and nutritional needs.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to receive WIC?
U.S. citizenship is not required for WIC eligibility. The program is available to all eligible women, infants, and children who meet the program's requirements, regardless of immigration status.
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