WIC

What is WIC?

WIC is a federal nutrition program that helps keep pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and young children healthy. WIC provides:

• Nutritious foods — a monthly package of specific foods chosen by nutritionists to meet participants’ needs
• Nutrition education — personalized guidance on healthy eating during and after pregnancy
• Breastfeeding support — counseling, education, and peer support
• Referrals — connections to health care, immunizations, and social services

WIC serves about 6.2 million people each month, including half of all infants born in the United States.

WIC foods

WIC provides specific foods based on age and nutritional needs. Common WIC foods include:

• Milk, cheese, and eggs
• Whole grain bread, cereals, and brown rice or oatmeal
• Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• Legumes (dried beans and peas, or canned)
• Infant formula (for non-breastfeeding infants)
• Baby food (fruits, vegetables, and meats for infants 6 months and older)

You shop with a WIC Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card or vouchers, accepted at authorized WIC vendors.

Breastfeeding support

WIC provides the highest level of benefits to breastfeeding mothers. Support includes:

• One-on-one counseling with a lactation consultant
• Breastfeeding peer counselors who have breastfed their own babies
• Breast pump loans when medically necessary

How to apply

To apply for WIC, contact your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment. At your appointment, staff will check your income, verify your address, and conduct a health screening to determine if you have a nutritional risk.

Bring to your appointment:

1. Proof of identity (ID card or driver’s license)
2. Proof of residency (utility bill or lease)
3. Proof of income (pay stubs or benefit letter)
4. Medical records or immunization records for children