Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for women, infants, and children
- Agency
- Ohio Department of Health
- 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. It helps families by providing financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC-authorized vendors. WIC also provides nutrition education, breastfeeding information, and support, and 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. WIC also provides nutrition education, breastfeeding information, and support, and assists in finding healthcare and other community services.
Eligibility Requirements
Residents of the state of Ohio, pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutrition risk, and who are at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
Required Documents
Proof of income, proof of residence, ID, and medical referral for high-risk individuals.
Images & PDFs
Addressing Food Insecurity: A Toolkit
An infographic emphasizing the role of pediatricians in combatting food insecurity and promoting children’s health and well-being. It highlights key statistics and strategies to support food security.
View Full ImageGreene County Maternal, Child & Infant Health Program Resource Guide
A guide for maternal, child, and infant health resources in Greene County, focusing on accessible healthcare and supportive programs.
View Full ImageHonoring World Breastfeeding Week
An infographic providing guidelines for creating breastfeeding-friendly office environments, aimed at supporting working mothers.
View Full ImageReport on Pregnant Women, Infants and Community Interventions in Ohio
A table showcasing different community-based interventions such as Centering Pregnancy, Home Visiting, and Community Health Workers across various counties in Ohio.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Addressing Stigma in Public Assistance: The Case of WIC
11/1/2020 | Coverage: national
This report focuses on the stigma associated with receiving aid, specifically WIC, and outlines strategies for improving perceptions and accessibility.
Source: American Public Health Association
Coverage Area: national
Rising Food Costs and WIC: A Lifeline for Families
9/10/2022 | Coverage: national
This analysis highlights how WIC addresses the challenges of rising food prices, emphasizing the necessity of these benefits in the current economic climate.
Source: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of WIC on Health and Economic Outcomes
3/15/2021 | Coverage: national
This report analyzes the economic and health benefits provided by the WIC program, demonstrating significant improvements in both areas for participants.
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act
3/23/2010This act included provisions to improve WIC food packages, enhancing the nutritional quality of foods available to participants.
Introduction of EBT for WIC
8/1/2004Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) systems were introduced to streamline the process for WIC participants, making it easier to access benefits.
Reauthorization of WIC
10/30/1992WIC was reauthorized with increased funding to expand its reach and improve services across the nation.
Expansion of WIC Services
5/4/1980The program was expanded to include additional services such as breastfeeding support and nutrition education, improving the overall health outcomes for participants.
Establishment of WIC Program
6/17/1972The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program was officially established as a pilot program under the Child Nutrition Act to address the nutritional needs of low-income women, infants, and children.
FAQ
You can apply for WIC in Ohio by contacting your local WIC agency or visiting the Ohio Department of Health website. Applications can often be completed in person, over the phone, or online depending on the local office's procedures. An appointment will be scheduled for you to determine your eligibility.
Reference: https://www.odh.ohio.gov/wic
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is a federally funded program designed to provide nutrition assistance and education to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and young children. To be eligible for WIC, applicants must meet certain criteria, including being a resident of Ohio, meeting income guidelines, and being at nutritional risk as determined by a health professional.
Reference: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic
WIC benefits can be used to purchase specific nutritious foods that are designed to improve the health of participants. These foods typically include milk, cheese, eggs, whole grain bread, cereals, fruits, vegetables, and infant formula. It's important to note that WIC benefits cannot be used to buy non-food items or foods that do not meet the program's nutritional guidelines.
If you're new to WIC, here's a helpful checklist of items you can purchase with your benefits:
- Milk
- Cheese
- Eggs
- Whole grain bread
- Cereals
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Infant formula
Always check with your local WIC office for the most current list of approved items.
To make the most of your WIC benefits, consider the following action items:
- Visit your local WIC clinic to schedule your appointments.
- Bring required documentation such as proof of income and residency.
- Participate in nutrition education classes offered through WIC.
- Keep track of your WIC appointments and benefits renewal dates.
Staying organized will help you maximize the benefits of the WIC program.
Reference: https://www.odh.ohio.gov/wic
Eligibility requirements and benefit details may vary. Always refer to official sources for the most accurate information.
