Most people know what WIC is but don’t know that it is available to foster and adoptive parents as well.
WIC provides healthy food for low-income families or any family receiving medical assistance.
Some of the foods provided are milk, cereal, 100% fruit juice, eggs, tuna fish, dried peas or beans, cheese, peanut butter, and infant formula. It is provided for a child up to age 5. During fresh fruit and vegetable season, you may also receive vouchers that are redeemable at local farmer’s markets.
If your child is on a specified diet, or has specific allergies, these items can be modified.
Walk through your local supermarket and you will see tags that say “WIC Approved Item.” To find out which products, brands, and sizes are approved, you will need to contact your local agency. In the state section, you will find contact information for the WIC office in your state. They will direct you to the closest regional office. Your regional office will also provide you with a list of participating grocery stores and farmers markets. Not all grocery stores participate.
Be prepared for your visit to be longer. Bring your child’s current immunization card and any medical records that might be important, paperwork showing the child has been placed in your custody, and your medical assistance card. The office may weigh and measure your child, as well as conduct a lead level test.
Benefits are based upon the age, weight, and stage of your child. Infants receive formula, and as they age, cereal is added. Children one year and older can receive the additional milk, eggs, peanut butter, and other foods listed above.
These benefits can continue past finalization, as long as your child is under 5 years of age.
