WIC

 

 

WIC Director -  Rhonda Brown  - rhondasbrown@suddenlinkmail.com

OFFICE:  (903) 784-1411

FAX:  (903) 784-1442

WIC CLINIC HOURS:  7:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M., MONDAY THRU THURSDAY


The WIC and Community Nutrition program at WCCHD provides nutrition education and healthy foods for pregnant women, new mothers, infants. The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, popularly known as WIC, is a nutrition program for pregnant, breastfeeding women and families with children younger than the age of five. 

Some of the services WIC offers include:

  • Electronic benefits card provides for supplemental nutritious foods high in iron, calcium, protein, vitamin C, and vitamin A.
  • 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 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.

 

WIC Eligibility

Those eligible for WIC assistance include:

  • Pregnant women (through pregnancy and up to six weeks after birth or after pregnancy ends)
  • Breastfeeding women (up to infant’s first birthday)
  • Non breastfeeding postpartum women (up to six months after the birth of an infant or after pregnancy ends)
  • Infants (up to first birthday)
  • Children up to their fifth birthday

To be eligible, applicants must meet income guidelines, a State residency requirement, and be individually determined to be at “nutrition risk” by a health professional.

One pregnant woman is a household of two. A pregnant woman expecting twins is a household of three.

For over 6 household members, or if you have any income questions, call the WIC Clinic at 903-784-1411.

 

What does nutritional risk mean?

WIC nutrition staff assess the presence of any medical conditions which may affect nutritional status and the appropriateness of usual dietary intake. Examples of medical conditions include: overweight or underweight for height, inappropriate weight gain during pregnancy, obstetrical problems, and iron deficiency. Participants may also be eligible due to a lack of the recommended daily amounts in the following food groups: milk products, protein foods, breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables.

 

Who gets WIC and how to apply

The WIC Program is designed to serve certain categories of women, infants, and children. Therefore, the following individuals are considered categorically eligible for WIC:

Women

  • Pregnant (during pregnancy and up to 6 weeks after the birth of an infant or the end of the pregnancy
  • Postpartum (up to six months after the birth of the infant or the end of the pregnancy)
  • Breastfeeding (up to the infant's first birthday)

Infants (up to the infant's first birthday)

Children (up to the child's fifth birthday)

A telephone call to the WIC Clinic is the first step. If qualified, the applicant will be enrolled in the WIC Program, and be on the way toward better health and nutrition.  There is no charge for eligible applicants.

Click the links below to Apply Now:

For Enrollment Information in Lamar County contact: 903-784-1411

 

What Type of food can you get through the WIC program?

  • Milk
  • Peanut Butter
  • Cheese
  • Dried Beans and Peas
  • Eggs
  • Iron Fortified Infant Formula
  • Cereals High in Iron
  • Infant Cereal and Juices
  • Fruit Juices High in Vitamin C
  • Carrots and Tuna fish
  • Fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables

WIC works with local merchants to provide items above.

 

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.