WHAT IT IS: The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a federally funded program that serves low and moderate income pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women; infants; and children up to age 5 who have a nutrition-related health problem.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE: WIC works to prevent and improve nutrition-related health problems in its target population.

WHO MAY RECEIVE THIS SERVICE: Pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum women, infants, or children under five years of age that have a medical or nutritional problem and meet the income guidelines are eligible for this program.

HOW THIS PROGRAM IS CARRIED OUT: Applicants are referred to WIC from Health Alliance clinics, private physicians, social service agencies, or by the applicants themselves. A review of the medical data, residence and income is conducted to determine eligibility. If the applicant is eligible, he/she will receive vouchers for supplemental foods that can be purchased at local grocery stores and/or pharmacies. The WIC Program provides a combination of nutrition education, supplemental foods, breastfeeding promotion and support, and referrals to health care.

HOW THE COMMUNITY BENEFITS: WIC serves approximately 5000 participants per month. Through nutrition education and supplemental foods, the diets of WIC participants and families have improved. This has lead to decreased infant mortality, morbidity, and low birth weight and a decrease in the prevalence of anemia (low iron).

"In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.