WIC is a program that provides food assistance to low-income women, infants, and children. WIC benefits include healthy foods, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support. Both parents can receive WIC benefits if they meet the eligibility requirements. To be eligible for WIC, parents must have a child under the age of 5 who is a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident. Parents must also meet income guidelines and live in a state where WIC is offered. To apply for WIC, parents can contact their local WIC agency.
Eligibility Requirements for WIC
To be eligible for WIC, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a pregnant woman, a new mother who has recently given birth or miscarried, or a child under the age of 5.
- Be a resident of Minnesota.
- Meet income guidelines. The income guidelines are based on the federal poverty level. You can find the current income guidelines on the WIC website.
- Have a nutritional need.
To determine if you have a nutritional need, WIC will ask you about your diet. WIC may also do a physical exam to check your height and weight. In addition to the above requirements, women ages 19 and younger must be either enrolled in school or working towards a high school equivalency degree.
| Age | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| Pregnant women | 185% of the poverty level |
| Breastfeeding women | 200% of the poverty level |
| Children under 5 | 185% of the poverty level |
Documentation Needed for WIC Application
To complete a WIC application, both parents will need to provide the following documentation:
Proof of Identity
- Driver’s license
- State ID card
- Passport
- Tribal ID card
Proof of Income
- Pay stubs
- Social Security statement
- Unemployment benefits statement
- Letter from employer
Proof of Address
- Utility bill
- Rent receipt
- Mortgage statement
- Bank statement
Proof of Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
- Doctor’s note
- Proof of WIC pregnancy or breastfeeding
Proof of Child’s Age
- Birth certificate
- Hospital record
- Health record
Special Cases
| Special Case | Additional Documentation |
|---|---|
| Foster child | Foster care placement document |
| Migrant worker | Proof of seasonal agricultural employment |
Benefits and Services Provided by WIC
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a federal nutrition program that provides supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition education to low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, and to infants and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk.
WIC benefits and services include:
- Supplemental foods, such as milk, cheese, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Health care referrals, such as for prenatal care, well-child visits, and immunizations
- Nutrition education, to help families make healthy food choices and learn about healthy eating habits
WIC Food Packages
WIC food packages are designed to provide participants with the nutrients they need to stay healthy. The food packages vary depending on the age and nutritional needs of the participant. For example, pregnant women receive a food package that includes milk, cheese, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Breastfeeding women receive a food package that includes milk, cheese, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, plus a breastfeeding supplement.
| Participant | Food Package |
|---|---|
| Pregnant women | Milk, cheese, eggs, fruits, vegetables, whole grains |
| Breastfeeding women | Milk, cheese, eggs, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, breastfeeding supplement |
| Infants | Formula, milk, fruits, vegetables, cereal |
| Toddlers | Milk, cheese, eggs, fruits, vegetables, whole grains |
| Children | Milk, cheese, eggs, fruits, vegetables, whole grains |
Well, there you have it, folks! Now you know that in most cases, both parents can indeed qualify for WIC benefits. If you’re eligible, don’t hesitate to take advantage of this great program. It can make a real difference in your family’s health and well-being. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back for more helpful content in the future! Take care, y’all!