WIC

When I first got pregnant, I was going through a difficult time both financially and emotionally. Since I had a degree in Nutrition, I already knew of the WIC program and its benefits. I was hesitant to apply then I got over it. With layoffs and economic problems plaguing America today, it is helpful to know there is a program out there that will help.

WIC is dedicated to providing pregnant women and children up to five with nutritious food and professional nutrition advice. WIC stands for Woman Infants and Children. The program began in 1974 and is operated by the Food and Nutrition Service department of the United Stated Department of Agriculture.

Are you eligible

• Must have an income of 185% of the poverty level or less. (May be less depending on the state you live in)
• Must be pregnant or breastfeeding (up to one year) or have a child under the age of five who is determined to be nutritionally at risk. (anemia, poor diet, pregnant, etc.)
• If you currently participate in the Medicaid, Temporary Assistants for Needy Families, or the Food Stamp Program.

Benefits of WIC

WIC foods include nutrient-dense items which are high in calcium, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, iron, and protein. All of these nutrients are essential for the development of your child, especially iron, protein, and calcium that promotes bone growth, weight gain, brain development, etc. Children who participate in WIC also are less likely to develop an iron deficiency. In addition, these children have a healthier diet and perform better intellectually.

Common items given by the WIC program include iron-fortified infant formula, carrots, tuna, peanut butter, peas, beans, milk, cereal, eggs, fruit juice, and cheese. If you have any special needs, WIC will provide special formulas and foods for your child's or your medical status. For example, tuna and carrots are provided for nursing women.

WIC also promotes healthy eating by providing food that corresponds with the development of your child. For example, they will only give infant cereal and juice when it is developmentally appropriate. There are also nutritionists available who will counsel you and your child regularly on how to eat right by charting the development and eating patterns. Frequent counseling also gives you reminders of other needs such as immunizations.

How to apply

You can contact your local health department for more information. In some cities there is a local WIC office. Check your phone listings for more information. When you go to the WIC office, bring a form of identification and proof of income.

Go To Page: 1 2

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic