Saturday, June 21, 2008

Women, Infants and Children (WIC)

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is a program that helps families by educating them on nutrition and helping them buy some of the healthy food they need.

Who Does WIC help? WIC is for all kinds of families. It is a short-term assistance for pregnant women, new mothers, and children under the age of five. Men can apply for WIC benefits for their children. Young mothers living with their parents and going to school may qualify. Children with working parents may qualify.

How Do You Qualify? WIC helps families with limited income. Many working families may qualify. Contact your local WIC office to make an appointment and find out which documents you need to bring with you. At your appointment, WIC staff will check to see if you and your family qualify.

What Can I Get Through WIC? You can learn about nutrition and health to help you and your family eat well. You can received special checks to buy healthy foods such as milk, juice, eggs, cheese, cereal, dry beans and peas, peanut butter, infant formula, and baby cereal. Women who breastfeed can receive extra food checks. WIC personnel can also help you find health care and other community services. WIC also provides support and information about breastfeeding, and may be able to loan you a breast pump.

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