Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for women, infants, and children
- Agency
- United States Department of Agriculture
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for women, infants, and children. It helps families by providing financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC-authorized vendors, and also offers nutrition education, breastfeeding information, and support. It assists in finding healthcare and other community services.
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for women, infants, and children. It helps families by providing financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC-authorized vendors, and also offers nutrition education, breastfeeding information, and support. It assists in finding healthcare and other community services.
Images & PDFs
1st and 2nd Trimesters - Stanford Health Care
An infographic detailing the effects of alcohol and drug use during pregnancy, focusing on facts about fetal development and the dangers posed by substance exposure.
View Full ImageWIC Pre-screening Tool
An online resource providing a pre-screening tool for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), aimed at helping individuals determine eligibility.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
The Impact of WIC on Food Security in Connecticut
6/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report evaluates the effects of the WIC program on food security among low-income families in Connecticut, demonstrating its role in enhancing nutritional intake and overall health outcomes.
Source: Connecticut Department of Public Health
Coverage Area: state
Understanding the WIC Program: Benefits and Challenges
9/20/2021 | Coverage: national
This report from the Urban Institute explores both the benefits and challenges faced by the WIC program, emphasizing its critical role in providing support to families amid rising costs.
Source: Urban Institute
Coverage Area: national
WIC Program Participation and Its Economic Benefits
1/10/2023 | Coverage: national
This analysis discusses the economic advantages of the WIC program, including how it helps families navigate the rising costs of living while ensuring children's health and development.
Source: No Kid Hungry
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act
12/13/2010This act reauthorized WIC and included new provisions to improve the nutritional quality of food offered through the program.
WIC Reauthorization
10/1/1992The program was reauthorized, leading to increased funding and a broader scope of services, particularly in addressing nutrition-related health issues.
WIC Expansion
1/1/1980The program was expanded to include additional benefits and services, including nutrition education and breastfeeding support.
WIC Program Established
7/1/1972The WIC program was established to provide nutritional support to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.
FAQ
To apply for WIC, you can either call your local WIC office or visit the Connecticut Department of Public Health's WIC page online to find an application. The application process may include a brief interview and documentation of income and residency. Once your application is submitted, a WIC representative will contact you to schedule an appointment.
To make your WIC application process smoother, consider these action items:
- Gather necessary documents, such as proof of income and identification.
- Contact your local WIC office for an appointment.
- Complete any required paperwork ahead of time.
- Prepare for the appointment by noting any specific nutritional needs or concerns.
Completing these action items can facilitate a quicker and more efficient application process.
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is a federally funded program that provides nutritional assistance, education, and support for low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and children up to age five. Eligibility is based on income, residency in Connecticut, and nutritional risk factors.
Reference: https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/WIC/WIC-Program-Information
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.
WIC benefits can be used to purchase specific types of foods that are deemed nutritious and beneficial for women, infants, and children. These typically include milk, eggs, cheese, whole grain bread, fruits, vegetables, and infant formula. The specific items can vary based on individual needs and local guidelines.
To ensure you can use your WIC benefits effectively, refer to this checklist:
- Verify your WIC eligibility and benefit balance.
- Make a shopping list based on approved WIC items.
- Bring your WIC card and any necessary identification to the store.
- Shop at authorized WIC retailers.
Following this checklist will help streamline your shopping experience with WIC benefits.
Reference: https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/WIC/WIC-Food-Guide
