Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for women, infants, and children that provides financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC-authorized vendors
- Agency
- United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
- Household income must be at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for women, infants, and children that provides financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC-authorized vendors. It offers nutrition education, breastfeeding information and support, and helps in connecting with healthcare and other community services.
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for women, infants, and children that provides financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC-authorized vendors. It offers nutrition education, breastfeeding information and support, and helps in connecting with healthcare and other community services.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, or children under the age of five. Must be a resident of the state of Louisiana.
Application Process
Applicants must contact their local WIC clinic to set up an appointment and are required to attend an in-person visit.
Required Documents
Proof of income, proof of residency, and identification such as a driver’s license or birth certificate are required for the application.
Images & PDFs
Colorado WIC Program Policies & Procedures
A handbook for retailers participating in the WIC program, providing guidance on policies and procedures to support women, infants, and children.
View Full ImagePointe Coupee Parish Health Profile
A community health planning tool focusing on health services and needs in Pointe Coupee Parish, potentially informing about programs like WIC.
View Full ImageWIC Eligibility and Pre-screening Web Presence Data Dashboard
A data dashboard showcasing the online presence and resources available for WIC eligibility and pre-screening services across various states.
View Full ImageWIC PreScreening Tool
An online tool to help potential applicants determine their eligibility for the WIC program by providing information on benefits and the application process.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
The Effects of Inflation on Low-Income Families: A WIC Perspective
1/12/2023 | Coverage: national
This USDA report provides insights into how inflation affects low-income families and underscores the importance of WIC in supporting these populations.
Source: US Department of Agriculture
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of WIC on Maternal and Child Health in Louisiana
3/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report evaluates the effects of the WIC program on the health and well-being of mothers and children in Louisiana, showcasing its vital role in addressing food insecurity.
Source: Louisiana Department of Health
Coverage Area: state
WIC and Economic Stability: A Study of Participants’ Experiences
9/30/2021 | Coverage: national
This research highlights how WIC provides essential support for families during economic downturns, particularly in light of rising living costs.
Source: National WIC Association
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Consolidated Appropriations Act
12/27/2020Included provisions for WIC, allowing states more flexibility in program delivery amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act
12/13/2010This act reauthorized WIC and introduced reforms aimed at improving the nutritional quality of the program.
WIC Modernization Act
6/1/2004This legislation aimed to modernize WIC operations and enhance services using technology.
WIC Reauthorization Act
10/31/1989This act aimed to strengthen and expand the WIC program, providing increased funding and access.
Establishment of WIC
6/17/1972The WIC program was established to provide nutritional support for low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.
FAQ
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in Louisiana is a federally funded nutrition assistance program that provides support to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children up to the age of five. WIC aims to improve health outcomes for families by offering nutrition education, healthy food options, breastfeeding support, and referrals to healthcare services.
Reference: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic
Eligibility for WIC benefits is determined by income and nutritional risk; participation is subject to state-specific regulations.
To be eligible for WIC in Louisiana, applicants must meet the following criteria: be a pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding woman; or have an infant or child under five years old; have a household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level; and be determined to be at nutritional risk by a health professional.
Here’s a quick checklist to see if you might be eligible for WIC:
- Are you pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum?
- Do you have an infant or child under the age of five?
- Is your household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level?
- Have you been assessed for nutritional risk by a health professional?
If you meet all these criteria, you may qualify for WIC services.
To apply for WIC, consider the following action items:
- Gather necessary documents such as proof of income and residency.
- Contact your local WIC office to schedule an appointment.
- Prepare for a nutrition assessment with a healthcare provider.
Taking these steps can help ensure a smooth application process.
Reference: https://ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/page/239
WIC services are available only in Louisiana; eligibility and benefits may vary by state.
