W.I.C.
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is a federal health, nutrition, and prevention program with a successful record of improving the diet and safeguarding the health of infants and children under age five and pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women who are at risk for nutrition-related illness. WIC is administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) and is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). These benefits are available in all 102 Illinois counties at more than 220 clinics, which include county health departments, community action agencies, and hospitals.
In Illinois, approximately 40 percent of all babies born are on the WIC program. Studies show the tremendous impact the WIC program has had on improving the health status of at-risk, low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants and young children. WIC is the entry point or “gateway” program for this population into the health care system. Recent studies have shown that WIC reduces fetal deaths, infant mortality, low birth weight rates, and iron deficiency anemia in children and increases immunization rates.
WIC provides nutrition education, counseling and support, breastfeeding support, nutritious foods, health screenings, and referral to other services. WIC enables parents to feed their children properly during critical periods of growth and development. The combination of nutrition education, nutritious foods, and access to other health services strengthens families long after their WIC eligibility has ended.
This institution is an equal opportunity employer.
Who can receive W.I.C. services?
Women and their children who are:
- Pregnant, breastfeeding or just had a baby (Link to breastfeeding page)
- Infants and children under 5 years old (including foster children)
- Families with low to medium income (income requirements below)
- To see if you qualify for W.I.C. visit: Wic PreScreening Tool
What services are offered?
W.I.C. can provide: (see Food List by clicking this link)
- Special checks to buy healthy foods – like milk, juice, eggs, cheese, cereal, dry beans or peas, and peanut butter
- Information about nutrition and health to help you and your family eat well and healthy
- Information and help about breastfeeding
- Help in finding health care and other services in the area
W.I.C. Food List
