En las noticias Healthy Starts with WIC

Everyone is Welcome at WIC

No matter your family’s shape or story—if you are  pregnant, breastfeeding, or caring for a child  under 5, you can get support from WIC!

• Moms
• Dads
• Grandparents
• Foster parents or guardians
• Stepparents
• Immigrant families
• Military families
• Indigenous families
• And more!

Who is Eligible for the Program?

We’re here for more families than you may think: WIC supports over half of all infants in the U.S.!  This can include but is not limited to:

• People who are currently pregnant, pregnant in the  last 6 months, or breastfeeding a baby up to 12 months old
• Families with infants or young children who are  receiving other benefits like SNAP or Medicaid
• Infants or children under 5 in foster families  (regardless of income)
• Infants or children under 5 that have special  nutritional needs or nutrient deficiencies

Breastfeeding Support

No matter where you call home, breastfeeding and  chestfeeding parents have the right to respectful  lactation support. WIC is here for you by offering  guidance, resources, and tools to meet your personal  goals and needs. This can include: 

• International Board Certified  Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs)
• Breastfeeding peer counselors
• Breastpumps and other breastfeeding supplies
• Personalized support and tips for breastfeeding
• Information about your protected rights for breastfeeding and pumping in public or at work
• Additional food and nutrition benefits for parents who are breastfeeding (including pumping) or combo feeding (breastmilk and infant formula)

Healthy Food

With WIC, your family can get monthly benefits to buy nutritious foods, including: 

Foods with calcium for strong bones and teeth:

• Milk and cheese
• Yogurt
• Non-dairy beverages

Grains with iron for energy and folic acid for healthy growth:

• Hot or cold cereal
• Brown or wild rice
• Soft corn or whole-wheat tortillas 
• Whole-grain bread or naan 
• Whole-wheat pizza 

Fruits and vegetables to support heart health and improve digestion:

• Fresh fruits, vegetables, and cut herbs
• Frozen or canned fruits and vegetables
• Farmers’ market benefits (in addition to monthly benefits)
• Fruit or vegetable juice 

Foods with protein for strong muscles and healthy skin: 

• Dried or canned beans, peas, and lentils
• Eggs
• Canned fish
• Peanut butter
• Tofu 

Iron-fortified foods for infants who need it: 

• Baby foods
• Infant formula, including prescription formula 
• Infant cereal 

*WIC food packages may vary by location; food packages are specialized for your family’s specific nutritional needs.

Nutrition Education 

We’re here to help you every step of the way with nutritious foods, tips, and support. Let’s make every bite a step toward a healthier future for your family! WIC nutrition support and education can include:

• Prenatal and postpartum nutrition assistance 
• Nutritionists and registered dietitians
• Special food packages for breastfeeding parents
• Healthy eating tips for your child and family
• Nutritious recipes and food safety information
• Culturally specific or allergen-friendly foods 

Referrals and Support

WIC offers support in your local clinic and can also connect your family with additional resources in your community. This can include:

• Designated breastfeeding experts and peer counselors (in-clinic support)
• Healthcare providers such as pediatricians, OBGYNs, midwives, and dentists
• Immunization services
• Substance use counselors
• Domestic abuse counseling
• Social services

Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)

• Benefits come as FMNP vouchers or EBT credit
• Available annually from summer through fall
• In addition to regular WIC benefits
• In some states, participants can also use their WIC CVB benefits at the Farmers’ Market

Note: FMNP benefits may vary based on state participation. 

Connect with a Clinic Near You

From clinics in health departments or hospitals to stand-alone clinics in Indigenous communities or on military installations, WIC has your back. Getting started with WIC is worth it—visit www.signupwic.com to find a clinic near you.

Get Started With WIC 

Find a Clinic Near You: signupwic.com/find-a-clinic

See If You’re Eligible: signupwic.com/get-started