The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a federal program that provides access to healthy food, nutrition education, and health care referrals to promote better health outcomes for families.  

To qualify for WIC, a person must be a pregnant or postpartum woman or an infant or child up to age 5. The person must also be at nutritional risk as assessed by a qualified health professional such as a physician, nutritionist, or nurse. This health screening is provided at no cost to program applicants. Applicants must also have incomes at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty guidelines for their family size. Individuals may be considered income-eligible for WIC if they already participate in Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.  

A variety of state and local agencies run WIC, including health departments and community organizations. These agencies are responsible for determining whether applicants qualify, for providing services, and for ensuring participants receive the necessary nutrition education and food benefits. Each state tailors its WIC program to meet the specific needs of its population while adhering to federal guidelines.

The WIC program reflects local needs and priorities, so it can vary from state to state in several significant ways. Each state agency can tailor its program to suit its population demographics, nutritional challenges, and available resources. For instance, state agencies may offer different food packages that reflect local dietary practices or preferences. In addition, the available nutrition education and counseling services can vary, with some state agencies focusing on health topics relevant to their communities. 

More information about WIC