What is WIC?
WIC is a Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children funded by the US Dept of Agriculture.
What does WIC offer?
The WIC staff determines which foods a participant receives based on individual needs. Some examples of healthy foods include: milk, juice, eggs, cheese, infant formula and cereal, peanut butter, and dries beans and peas. WIC also provides nutrition information on infant feeding, special diets, healthy pregnancies, and child growth and development.
Who is WIC for?
¨ Pregnant women
¨ Breastfeeding women who have had a baby within the past 12 months
¨ Women who have had a baby within the past 6 months
¨ Infants
¨ Children up to 5 years of age
Do I qualify for WIC?
Applicants must be seen by a WIC staff member in order to determine eligibility. All kinds of families qualify for WIC, such as: working or not working, married or single, students, and people living with their parents.
How do I apply?
Call the New Hanover County WIC office at (910)798-6500 to schedule an appointment, or call 1-800-FOR-BABY (367-2229) to find the WIC office closest to you. You will need to provide proof of identification, residence (where you live), and household income. Examples of things to bring with you may include, but are not limited to: Valid driver’s license, Social Security Card, Work or school ID, current utility or cable bill, current rental or mortgage statement, recent pay-stubs, or a recent tax return. Your WIC staff will be able to answer questions that you may have.
What happens at a WIC visit?
¨ Your income information will be reviewed
¨ You will be asked questions about your health and your diet
¨ Height, weight, and a blood test for iron deficiency will be done, unless you bring this information from another clinic or doctor’s office
¨ A Nutritionist or Nurse will review the above information to see if you are eligible for WIC
¨ Any nutrition problems or questions you may have will be discussed
¨ If eligible, you will be given “checks” to take to the store to get your food
Please visit www.nutritionnc.com for more information.