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1. What is WIC?

WIC, the Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children, is an important resource in improving the health and nutrition of women, infants, and children during pregnancy and early childhood. Some of the services WIC offers include:

• Supplemental nutritious foods are high in the following:
  • Calcium
  • Iron
  • Protein
  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin C
• Nutrition education focusing on issues such as healthy foods during pregnancy and breastfeeding, introducing solid foods to infants, and providing nutritious meals and snacks for children.
• Breastfeeding education, breast pumps, nursing bras/pads and support on all aspects of breastfeeding.
• Referrals to other health and social service programs, such as prenatal and child health care and other food assistance programs.

2. Who is eligible for WIC?

• Breastfeeding women until their infant's first birthday
• Infants and children up to age 5
• Postpartum women up to 6 months after the pregnancy ends (includes miscarriage, stillbirth, adoption, and abortion)
• Pregnant women

Pregnant women are encouraged to apply as soon as they find out they are pregnant. Dads, grandparents and foster parents raising children are also encouraged to apply on behalf of their children. Families that qualify for Medicaid, SNAP (Food Stamps) or TANF automatically qualify for WIC services and must show proof of enrollment in at least one of these programs. All other families must meet the income guidelines.

3. What type of foods can you get through the WIC program?

• Baby Food
• Cereals high in Iron
• Cheese
• Dried Beans/Peas/Lentils
• Eggs
• Fruit and Vegetables
• Fruit Juices high in Vitamin C
• Infant Cereals
• Iron Fortified Infant Formula
• Milk
• Oatmeal/Brown Rice
• Peanut Butter
• Soy/Tofu/Kosher options (restrictions apply)
• Whole Grains such as whole wheat bread, whole wheat or corn tortillas

For 100% of Breastfeeding Mothers Only

• Tuna/Salmon

Local Stores

WIC works with local stores to provide these items.

4. Is WIC successful?

Yes, WIC works. Children lead healthier lives because WIC provides supplemental foods and emphasizes nutrition education during pregnancy, lactation, and early childhood. National studies show that WIC has a positive impact on reducing low birth weight, saving on Medicaid costs and encouraging pregnant women to seek early prenatal care. Studies also show WIC participants consume larger amounts of important nutrients such as iron, protein, calcium, and vitamin C. Children participating in WIC are better immunized and more likely to have a regular source of medical care.

5. How do you apply for WIC benefits?

Apply for WIC Benefits

Start the application process at Texas WIC. From there, you can give us a call at 325-692-1680 to make an appointment at our local office. You will be asked to bring the following items to your appointment:

• Each person applying for WIC must come to the appointment
• ID for yourself and each person applying
• Immunization Records, if available
• Proof of income for everyone working in the household (check stubs need to be dated within 30 days of your appointment) or proof of current enrollment in Medicaid, SNAP or TANF.
• Proof of where you live
• Social security numbers for everyone in the household, if available