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
- Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
- Up to 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 Missouri, pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, infants and children up to age 5 who are considered to be at nutritional risk and meet the income guidelines.
Application Process
Applicants must contact their local WIC office to schedule an appointment and are typically required to provide proof of residency, income, and identification at the time of the appointment.
Required Documents
Proof of residency, proof of income, identification, and proof of pregnancy (if applicable)
Images & PDFs
FFY 2019 Colorado WIC Program Retailer Handbook
A handbook for retailers participating in the Colorado WIC program, detailing requirements, processes, and benefits for WIC participants.
View Full ImageMATERNAL CHILD HEALTH NEWSLETTER
A newsletter from Missouri's Department of Health and Senior Services providing tips for safe baby sleep practices.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
The Cost of Living Crisis and Food Assistance Programs
3/30/2023 | Coverage: national
This report analyzes the rising costs of living and the critical role food assistance programs like WIC play in addressing food insecurity in the U.S., with particular focus on the increasing dependence on such programs to bridge gaps caused by inflation.
Source: Food and Nutrition Service, USDA
Coverage Area: national
The Economic Impact of WIC: An Analysis of Missouri Data
1/10/2023 | Coverage: state
This analysis explores the economic implications of WIC, highlighting its role in alleviating financial hardship during periods of rising living costs.
Source: Economic Research Service, USDA
Coverage Area: state
Understanding the Role of WIC in Promoting Community Health
9/25/2022 | Coverage: national
This national report discusses the community-wide health benefits of WIC, emphasizing how it aids in reducing stigma and enhancing public perception of nutritional aid programs.
Source: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
Coverage Area: national
WIC Participation and Its Impact on Food Security in Missouri
4/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report outlines how WIC participation among women and children in Missouri significantly enhances food security, contributing to improved health outcomes and economic stability for families.
Source: Missouri Women's Health Coalition
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act
3/23/2010This legislation expanded WIC benefits and emphasized the importance of healthy food options for participants.
Increased Funding for WIC
9/1/2004The program received a significant increase in funding to address growing enrollment and nutritional needs.
WIC Improvements
8/10/1992Changes to WIC included a shift to more flexible food packages and improved nutritional education.
WIC Reauthorization Act
5/1/1980The WIC program was formally authorized and funded under the Child Nutrition Act, establishing it as a permanent federal program.
Establishment of WIC Program
6/30/1972The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program was established as a pilot program in Missouri as part of a nationwide initiative to improve health and nutrition for low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.
FAQ
To apply for WIC in Missouri, you can contact your local WIC agency or visit the Missouri WIC website. Applications can typically be done in person or over the phone. You'll need to provide information about your income, family size, and nutritional needs. After your application is submitted, an appointment will be scheduled for a nutrition assessment.
To ensure a smooth application process, consider these action items:
- Gather proof of income and residency documents
- List any dietary restrictions or health concerns
- Make an appointment with your local WIC office
- Complete any necessary forms prior to your appointment
These steps will help expedite your WIC application process.
Reference: https://mydss.mo.gov/food-assistance/food-stamp-program/wic
To qualify for the WIC program in Missouri, you must meet the following criteria: be a resident of Missouri, have a household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level, and be pregnant, postpartum, or have a child under the age of five. Additionally, you must be assessed by a health professional who will determine if you have a nutritional risk that WIC can help address.
To determine if you are eligible for WIC, please check the following checklist:
- Reside in Missouri
- Household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level
- Be pregnant, postpartum, or have a child under five years old
- Have a nutritional risk identified by a health professional
If you meet all these criteria, you may qualify for WIC benefits.
Reference: https://mydss.mo.gov/food-assistance/food-stamp-program/wic
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is a federal assistance program designed to provide nutritional support, health education, and breastfeeding support to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. WIC aims to improve the health of these vulnerable populations by offering healthy food options, nutrition education, and access to healthcare services.
Reference: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic
