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
- Texas Department of State Health Services
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
- Household income must be at or below 185% of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines
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 and 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 and assists in finding healthcare and other community services.
Eligibility Requirements
Residents of the state of Texas, Pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are considered at nutritional risk and who have a family income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level
Application Process
Apply through the Texas WIC website or by contacting a local WIC office
Required Documents
Proof of identity, proof of residence, proof of income, and a WIC referral form from a healthcare provider
Additional Information
Learn more from their website
Images & PDFs
DRAFT Maternal Health FY22 Annual Report
A resource from the Texas Department of State Health Services detailing the health initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for Texas mothers and babies. It includes various aspects of maternal and child health such as professional education, community engagement, and quality improvement.
View Full ImageGN - WIC Shopping Tips and Tricks
A visual resource providing guidance on using myWIC to manage shopping and food benefits efficiently. It promotes accessibility and confidence in using WIC services.
View Full ImageInformation for Parents of Newborns
An infographic explaining the legal requirement for pregnant women in Texas to be tested for syphilis during their pregnancy at specific intervals.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Economic Analysis of WIC Benefits in the Context of Rising Living Costs
8/22/2021 | Coverage: national
This analysis details the financial relief WIC provides amid rising costs of living, demonstrating the program's essential role in economic stability for families.
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of WIC on Maternal and Child Health in Texas
3/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report examines how the WIC program improves health outcomes for women and children in Texas, particularly in underserved communities.
Source: Texas Health and Human Services
Coverage Area: state
WIC: A Lifeline for Low-Income Families in Texas
11/10/2020 | Coverage: state
This report focuses on the social impact of the WIC program in Texas, addressing the stigma often associated with public assistance.
Source: Texas WIC Support Network
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
Reauthorization of WIC
11/17/2004The WIC program was reauthorized, allowing for additional funding and the inclusion of new food packages to better address nutritional needs.
WIC Improvements Act
5/21/1992The WIC Improvements Act was enacted, enhancing program services, including expanded outreach efforts and nutritional education.
WIC Funding Increase
11/14/1980Funding for the WIC program was increased significantly, allowing more participants to access benefits and improving the quality of services.
WIC Becomes Permanent
10/1/1974The WIC program was made a permanent part of the federal nutrition assistance programs, ensuring ongoing funding and support.
WIC Program Established
6/17/1972The WIC program was officially established as a pilot program under the Child Nutrition Act, aimed at providing nutritional support to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.
FAQ
WIC is a federal assistance program that provides nutritional support, education, and healthcare referrals for low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and children under the age of five. The program aims to improve the health of participants by providing healthy food options and nutrition counseling.
Reference: https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/women-infants-and-children-wic
WIC provides a variety of nutritious foods aimed at improving the diet of participants. These foods include milk, eggs, cheese, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and infant formula. The specific foods offered may vary based on nutritional needs and local availability.
To be eligible for WIC in Texas, applicants must meet the following criteria: be a resident of Texas, meet certain income guidelines, and be pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under five years old. Additionally, participants must have a nutritional risk as determined by a health professional.
If you're interested in applying for WIC, here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need:
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver's license or state ID)
- Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs or tax return)
- Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement)
- Health records for the applicant and child
Having these documents ready will streamline your application process.
To get started with the WIC application process, consider these action items:
- Visit the Texas WIC website for more information.
- Contact your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment.
- Gather the required documents listed above.
- Prepare for a brief interview to discuss your nutritional needs.
Following these steps will help you successfully enroll in the WIC program.
Reference: https://www.texaswic.org/
Eligibility and benefits may vary; please consult local WIC offices for specific guidance.
