Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program that supports women, infants, and children by providing financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC-authorized vendors
- Agency
- Tennessee Department of Health
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
- Households must have income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program that supports women, infants, and children by providing financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC-authorized vendors. It also offers nutrition education, breastfeeding information and support, and assistance in finding healthcare and other community services.
WIC is a federally funded nutrition program that supports women, infants, and children by providing financial assistance to purchase healthy supplemental foods from WIC-authorized vendors. It also offers nutrition education, breastfeeding information and support, and assistance in finding healthcare and other community services.
Eligibility Requirements
Pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 who meet income guidelines.
Application Process
Applicants must contact local WIC clinics to set up an appointment and are typically required to bring proof of residence, identification, and proof of income.
Required Documents
Proof of residence, identification, proof of income
Images & PDFs
Congratulations on Your Pregnancy! Hamilton County Health Department
An informative resource from the Hamilton County Health Department discussing the benefits and support available for expecting parents through programs like home visiting services.
View Full ImageCongratulations on Your Pregnancy! TennCare Connect
This resource provides information on how to apply for and manage TennCare coverage using TennCare Connect, a handy online tool for residents in Tennessee.
View Full ImageIdentifying Whole Grain-Rich for WIC
A guide on identifying whole grain-rich products eligible for WIC. It provides tips and visual examples to assist with choosing appropriate foods.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Economic Analysis of WIC Participation in Tennessee
9/15/2021 | Coverage: state
This economic analysis examines the impact of WIC participation on local economies and its importance amidst rising costs and stagnant wages.
Source: Tennessee Economic and Community Development
Coverage Area: state
WIC Program: Reducing Stigma and Improving Health Outcomes
5/10/2022 | Coverage: state
This report outlines how the WIC program in Tennessee plays a crucial role in reducing stigma associated with receiving food assistance, while simultaneously improving health outcomes for mothers and children.
Source: Tennessee Department of Health
Coverage Area: state
WIC's Role in Supporting Low-Income Families
1/20/2023 | Coverage: national
This national report details how the WIC program provides vital support to low-income families, countering misconceptions about welfare programs being mere handouts.
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act
12/13/2010This act provided significant funding for WIC and aimed to improve child nutrition, establishing stronger standards for food provided.
Introduction of EBT for WIC
5/1/2004Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) was introduced to the WIC program to streamline benefit issuance and redemption.
Implementation of the Food Package Revisions
6/30/1992The WIC program revised food packages to provide more nutritious food options and encourage healthier eating habits.
Expansion of Eligibility
1/1/1989The WIC program expanded eligibility criteria, allowing more families to benefit from the services, including broader income limits.
Establishment of WIC Program
7/1/1972The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program was established to provide nutritional assistance and health care referrals to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.
FAQ
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in Tennessee is a federal assistance program designed to provide nutrition education, healthy food, and referrals to healthcare services for low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, as well as infants and children up to age five. WIC aims to improve the health of these populations by ensuring they have access to proper nutrition and resources.
Reference: https://www.tn.gov/wic
Eligibility requirements may vary. Please check with your local WIC office for specific details.
WIC benefits can be used to purchase a variety of nutritious foods that promote health. These typically include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, milk, eggs, cheese, beans, peanut butter, and infant formula. The specific items allowed may vary, so it's essential to review your WIC benefits guide or consult with a WIC representative.
To be eligible for WIC in Tennessee, applicants must meet the following criteria: be a pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding woman, an infant, or a child up to age five; meet income guidelines; and be a resident of Tennessee. Additionally, applicants must be assessed by a WIC health professional to determine nutritional needs.
To determine if you qualify for WIC in Tennessee, consider the following checklist:
- You are pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding.
- You have an infant or child under the age of five.
- Your household income meets WIC income guidelines.
- You reside in the state of Tennessee.
If you meet all these criteria, you may be eligible for the WIC program.
If you are interested in applying for WIC, follow these action items:
- Gather proof of income (e.g., pay stubs, tax returns).
- Collect proof of residency (e.g., utility bills, lease agreements).
- Contact your local WIC office to schedule an appointment.
- Complete the application process and attend your scheduled appointment.
By completing these steps, you can start the process to receive WIC benefits.
Reference: https://www.tn.gov/wic/eligibility
This information is subject to change. For the most accurate details, consult your local WIC office.
