Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for Women, Infants, and Children that helps families by providing financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC authorized vendors
- Agency
- Federal Resource
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
- Households must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty income guidelines
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for Women, Infants, and Children that helps families by providing financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC authorized vendors. WIC also provides nutrition education, breastfeeding information and support as well as assisting in finding healthcare and other community services.
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for Women, Infants, and Children that helps families by providing financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC authorized vendors. WIC also provides nutrition education, breastfeeding information and support as well as assisting in finding healthcare and other community services.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, or infants and children up to age 5
Application Process
Visit your local WIC clinic; complete an application and provide proof of income, residency, and identification.
Required Documents
Proof of income, residency, and identification
Images & PDFs
Arizona WIC Program State Plan FFY 2017
A document outlining the state plan for the Arizona WIC Program, focusing on supporting women, infants, and children with nutritional assistance.
View Full ImageArizona WIC Program Vendor Manual
A manual designed for vendors involved with the Arizona WIC Program, explaining the program's guidelines, benefits, and procedures.
View Full ImageHANDS WIC System Clinic User Manual
A detailed manual for navigating the HANDS WIC system, providing instructions for users within the Arizona WIC program.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Breaking the Stigma: Understanding WIC’s Role in Reducing Financial Hardship
3/12/2023 | Coverage: state
This research focuses on the stigma surrounding food assistance programs, providing evidence on how WIC combats negative perceptions and supports families in need.
Source: Nourish America
Coverage Area: state
Economic Benefits of the WIC Program
8/20/2022 | Coverage: national
This policy statement details the economic benefits of WIC, showing that investments in nutrition assistance yield significant returns for communities and the economy.
Source: American Public Health Association
Coverage Area: national
The Effects of Food Price Increases on WIC Participation
6/10/2022 | Coverage: national
This paper examines how rising food prices have increased the reliance on WIC benefits, emphasizing the program's role in food security during economic hardship.
Source: RAND Corporation
Coverage Area: national
WIC Works: A Review of WIC’s Impact on Participants and Communities
9/15/2021 | Coverage: national
This report reviews various studies highlighting the benefits of the WIC program for low-income women and children, showing significant improvements in health and nutrition.
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
COVID-19 Relief and WIC Adjustments
12/27/2020COVID-19 relief measures allowed for temporary adaptations to WIC services, including online shopping and remote certification.
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act
3/23/2010This legislation expanded WIC to include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy options in its food packages.
WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program Launched
8/1/1992This program was introduced to provide fresh produce to WIC participants, supporting local farmers and promoting healthy eating.
WIC Funding Increased
7/1/1989Increased funding for WIC was enacted, allowing for expanded services and benefits for participants.
WIC Program Established
12/15/1972The WIC program was established by the Child Nutrition Act, providing nutritional support for women, infants, and children in need.
FAQ
Applying for WIC in Arizona can be initiated by contacting your local WIC office. You can call, visit in person, or even start the application process online in some areas.
Reference: https://azdhs.gov/preparedness/public-health-preparedness/wic/
Application processes can vary by location, so it's important to speak directly with your local WIC office.
The WIC program provides a variety of benefits, including access to healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to healthcare services. Participants receive checks or EBT cards to purchase specific nutritious foods that support their health and well-being.
To maximize your WIC benefits, consider the following action items:
- Attend all scheduled WIC appointments.
- Participate in nutrition education classes offered by WIC.
- Utilize breastfeeding support services available through WIC.
- Keep your contact information up-to-date with the WIC office.
By following these steps, you can fully benefit from the services offered by the WIC program.
Reference: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/wic-benefits
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is a federal assistance program designed to provide nutrition support, education, and health services to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. Eligibility typically includes being a resident of Arizona, having a household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level, and being assessed as nutritionally at risk by a health professional.
Reference: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/about-wic
Eligibility requirements may vary. Please check with local WIC offices for specific guidelines.
When attending your WIC appointment, it is important to be prepared with the necessary documentation. This ensures a smooth process and timely assistance. Please refer to the following checklist.
To prepare for your WIC appointment, please bring the following items:
- Proof of identity (such as a driver's license or ID card)
- Proof of residency (like a utility bill or lease agreement)
- Income verification (pay stubs, tax returns, etc.)
- Health information for your child (immunization records, etc.)
Having these documents ready will help expedite your WIC services.
Reference: https://azwic.gov/what-to-bring
