---

WIC, the Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children, is an important resource in improving the health and nutrition of women, infants, and children during pregnancy and early childhood. Some of the services WIC offers include:

• Supplemental nutritious foods high in iron, calcium, protein, vitamin C, and vitamin A.
• Nutrition education focusing on issues such as healthy foods during pregnancy and breastfeeding, introducing solid foods to infants, and providing nutritious meals and snacks for children.
• Breastfeeding education and support on all aspects of breastfeeding.
• Referrals to other health and social service programs, such as prenatal and child health care and other food assistance programs.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 who meet income guidelines and who are at nutritional risk are eligible for participation in WIC.





WIC nutrition staff assess the presence of any medical conditions which may affect nutritional status and the appropriateness of usual dietary intake. Examples of medical conditions include: overweight or underweight for height, inappropriate weight gain during pregnancy, obstetrical problems, and iron deficiency. Participants may also be eligible due to a lack of the recommended daily amounts in the following food groups: milk products, protein foods, breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables.





Income is defined as money earned in a year before taxes or other deductions are taken out. To be eligible for WIC income cannot exceed the following guidelines.

WIC Income Guidelines
The WIC income guidelines below are effective April 1, 2009
Family Size	Weekly	Bi-Weekly	Twice Monthly	Monthly	Annual
1	$  386	$  771	$  835	$1,670	$20,036
2	$  519	$1,037	$1,124	$2,247	$26,955
3	$  652	$1,303	$1,412	$2,823	$33,874
4	$  785	$1,569	$1,700	$3,400	$40,793
5	$  918	$1,836	$1,988	$3,976	$47,712
6	$1,051	$2,102	$2,277	$4,553	$54,631

* One pregnant woman is a household of two. A pregnant woman expecting twins is a household of three.

For over 6 household members, or if you have any income questions, call your local WIC clinic.

• Milk
• Peanut Butter
• Cheese
• Dried Beans and Peas
• Eggs
• Iron Fortified Infant Formula
• Cereals High in Iron
• Infant Cereal
• Fruit Juices High in Vitamin C
• Carrots and Tuna fish

WIC works with local merchants to provide these item.

Is WIC successful?

Yes, WIC works. Children lead healthier lives because WIC provides supplemental foods and emphasizes nutrition education during pregnancy, lactation, and early childhood. National studies show that WIC has a positive impact on reducing low birth weight, saving on Medicaid costs and encouraging pregnant women to seek early prenatal care. Studies also show WIC participants consume larger amounts of important nutrients such as iron, protein, calcium, and vitamin C. Children participating in WIC are better immunized and more likely to have a regular source of medical care.



A telephone call to the agency in their community offering WIC services is the first step. If qualified, the applicant will be enrolled in the WIC Program, and be on the way toward better health and nutrition.

For Enrollment Information in Taylor County contact:

Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District

WIC Program
850 North 6th
Abilene, Texas 79601
(325) 692-1680






Return to Top of Page

Health

Birth and Death Certificates

Epidemiology

Immunizations

MAAC Program

Medical Health Care

WIC

Related Links