WIC:
Helping women, infants and children lead a healthy lifestyle
Courtesy of
Assemblyman
José Rivera
Dear Friend,

Nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of our children and mothers. And research has shown that few things are more critical in a child’s formative years than a healthy, balanced diet.

That’s why the New York State Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program was created to assist mothers and children with their dietary needs. This pamphlet provides the information you need to know about the WIC program.

If you have any questions or comments about this or any other issue, please don’t hesitate to contact my office.

Assemblyman José Rivera Sincerely,
signature
José Rivera
Member of Assembly

One Fordham Plaza, Suite 1008 • Bronx, NY 10458
718-933-2204 • riveraj@assembly.state.ny.us


What is the WIC program?

The New York State WIC program is a supplemental food program that works to improve the health of low-income pregnant or breastfeeding women, infants and children up to age 5. The WIC program provides low-fat, high-fiber foods, milk, juice, formula and other items to eligible participants as part of a “food package.” Participants purchase the food packages at retail establishments with redeemable food instruments (checks).

The WIC program also provides breastfeeding support efforts and participant-centered nutritional education.

Who is eligible for WIC?

You can receive WIC benefits if you meet all four of these requirements:

  1. You must be
    • A pregnant women of any age;
    • A mother of a baby that is up to 6 months of age;
    • A breastfeeding mother of a baby that is up to 12 months of age; OR
    • An infant or child up to age 5.
  2. You must be a resident of New York State, but you do not need to be a U.S. citizen.
  3. You must meet the income eligibility guidelines OR be receiving benefits from Food Stamps, Medicaid or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
  4. Your medical or nutritional needs must be assessed by a WIC health care professional to determine which benefits are available to you.

Why apply?

WIC has shown to improve the health of pregnant women, new mothers and their infants and children. The foods provided through WIC are a good source of essential nutrients that are often missing from the diets of women and young children. WIC participants have healthier pregnancies and fewer premature births.

How do I apply for WIC benefits?

You can apply for WIC benefits through your local WIC agency. To locate the WIC agency nearest to you, call 1-800-522-5006 or visit www.health.state.ny.us/prevention/nutrition/wic/local_agencies.htm.

For more information, visit www.health.state.ny.us/prevention/nutrition/wic/.



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