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
- Idaho Department of Health and Welfare
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
- Household income must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
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 assists 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 assists in finding healthcare and other community services.
Eligibility Requirements
Residents of the state of Idaho, pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are considered to be at nutritional risk.
Application Process
Apply through the local WIC agency. Participants must bring proof of income, residence, and ID to their appointment.
Required Documents
Proof of income, proof of residence, identification, and proof of pregnancy if applicable.
Additional Information
Learn more from their website
Images & PDFs
WIC Eligibility and Pre-screening Web Presence
A document outlining the online presence and key factors for evaluating WIC eligibility. Includes benefits, security measures, and modernization plans.
View Full ImageWIC Eligibility Web Presence Dashboard
A dashboard showing the web presence and accessibility of WIC eligibility information across different regions and tribes. Highlights availability of online resources.
View Full ImageWIC Pre-Screening Tool
An online tool to help potential applicants determine eligibility for the WIC program, offering nutritional support to women, infants, and children.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Economic Analysis of WIC Program Benefits
11/20/2021 | Coverage: national
This economic analysis from the USDA discusses how WIC programs counteract the financial pressures faced by low-income families amidst rising living costs.
Source: United States Department of Agriculture
Coverage Area: national
Reducing Stigma: WIC’s Role in Community Support
2/10/2023 | Coverage: national
This publication examines how WIC programs work to destigmatize aid and promote community solidarity in times of financial distress.
Source: American Public Health Association
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of WIC on Food Security in Idaho
5/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report details how the WIC program in Idaho has significantly improved food security among low-income families, leading to better health outcomes for mothers and children.
Source: Idaho Department of Health and Welfare
Coverage Area: state
WIC and Health Outcomes: Evidence from Idaho
9/1/2020 | Coverage: state
This report evaluates health outcomes for children and mothers participating in WIC in Idaho, illustrating the program's role in alleviating financial stress.
Source: University of Idaho
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
COVID-19 Response and WIC Flexibilities
3/1/2020In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the USDA provided states with flexibility in WIC operations, including remote certification and online food purchasing.
WIC Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Implementation
1/1/2014WIC transitioned to an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system, modernizing the way benefits are delivered and accessed by participants.
WIC Food Package Revisions
11/1/1992The USDA revised the food packages provided to WIC participants, emphasizing more nutritious options and reflecting updated dietary guidelines.
WIC Expansion
1/1/1980The WIC program was expanded to include a broader range of eligible individuals, increasing the number of beneficiaries across the nation.
WIC Program Established
7/1/1972The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program was established as a federal initiative to provide nutritional assistance to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.
FAQ
To apply for WIC in Idaho, follow these steps: contact your local WIC office to schedule an appointment, bring necessary documents such as proof of identity, residency, and income, and complete a health and nutrition assessment during your visit. If eligible, you will receive benefits including nutrition education, counseling, and food vouchers.
Before you apply for WIC, make sure you have the following items ready:
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver's license or state ID)
- Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement)
- Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs or tax returns)
- Your child's immunization records (if applicable)
Having these documents ready can streamline your application process.
To ensure a smooth application process, consider these action items:
- Contact your local WIC office for appointment availability.
- Gather required documentation beforehand.
- Prepare any questions you may have about the program.
- Bring your child to the appointment for assessment.
Taking these steps will help you maximize your WIC experience.
Reference: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/wic/how-apply-wic
Eligibility requirements may vary; consult your local WIC office for the most accurate information.
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is a federal assistance initiative designed to support the health of low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and their children up to age five. Eligibility for WIC includes being a resident of Idaho, meeting specific income guidelines, and being assessed as at nutritional risk by a health professional.
Reference: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/wic
WIC benefits can be used to purchase a variety of healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, milk, eggs, cheese, peanut butter, and cereal. The specific foods available can vary based on individual nutritional needs and the state’s WIC program guidelines.
Reference: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/food-packages
