| DISCLAIMER The Cole County Health Department provides the content of this website for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Page Last Updated: Wednesday, September 5, 2007 |
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Who may be eligible for WIC services? What are the benefits and services provided by WIC? |
- The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is a preventive health and nutrition program that provides assistance and services to young families to promote optimal growth and development.
Who may be eligible for WIC services?
- Pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women; infants; children under five years of age
- Participants that meet income eligibility
What are the benefits and services provided by WIC?
- Nutrition Education: One-on-one personalized nutrition education and counseling is provided by Registered Dietitians to address basic and special needs.
- Breastfeeding Education: Breastfeeding education and assistance is provided by trained staff, which includes a breastfeeding peer counselor, certified breastfeeding educators and a lactation consultant. Breast pumps are available to participants based on individual need.
- Health Screenings: Health screenings are conducted at all certification appointments. These include measuring height and weight, a simple blood analysis and reviewing medical and nutrition history.
- Nutritious Foods: Checks are provided to eligible participants that include specific nutritious foods to supplement the diet. These checks are redeemed at participating grocery stores. Some of the foods that might be provided are: milk, cheese, eggs, peanut butter, beans, fruit juice, cereal, tuna and carrots. WIC encourages breastfeeding since it is the best source of nutrition for infants, however, WIC also provides infant formula, cereal and juice.
- Health Care Referrals: The WIC staff encourages and provides access to health care by providing participants with referrals to other community-based agencies and private providers.
The above services, excluding breast pumps, are provided at no cost to eligible participants.
How do I apply for WIC services?
- Call 573-636-2181 and staff will discuss eligibility criteria, collect personal data, and make an appointment.
- Submission of personal identification documents, proof of residency, and proof of income are required at every certification appointment.
- Moms, dads, or legal guardians can enroll infants and children in the WIC program.
- Test your Fast Food Knowledge, click here: Fast Food
- Test your Healthy Weight for Children Knowledge, click here: Healty Weight for Children
- Test your Portion Control Knowledge, click here: Portion Distortion
- Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
- Kelly Mom Breastfeeding
- My Pyramid
- American Dietetic Association Nutrition Fact Sheets