The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Why do fully breastfed babies receive vouchers for baby food meat?
Babies who receive formula get iron supplements in their formula; fully breastfed babies must get their iron elsewhere
What are the criterion for eligibility?
Categorical - women and children; residency; income; nutritional risk
What does canned fish provide for a breastfeeding woman?
DHA
What is the purpose of WIC?
Federally funded to improve health of "at risk" individuals during times of critical development; provide nutrients that the average American is low in; supplements diet
What was added to the WIC list in 2009 for women and children?
Fresh fruits and vegetables; whole grain bread
What is the income requirement for WIC?
No more than 185% of poverty; 2016 for a family of 4 - $44,863/year; qualify for other programs
When did WIC begin?
Piloted in 1972; became permanent in 1974
How do the WIC food packages make incentives for women to breastfeed?
Postpartum fully breastfeeding women receive vouchers for more food; fully breastfed babies receive vouchers for more baby food fruits and vegetables, and vouchers for baby food meat
Why is WIC important?
Provides assistance to such a large population; promotes health during crucial times of development; provides access to foods that many low-income populations might not have access to without WIC; promotes breastfeeding; has the potential to build healthy food preferences among infants and toddlers
Who determines eligibility for WIC?
State agencies; federally funded
What does WIC provide?
Supplemental food vouchers; nutrition education; health care referral; breastfeeding counseling
What are half of the cereals on the WIC list?
Whole grain, as of 2009
Who is eligible for WIC?
Women - pregnant and up to 6 weeks after birth or end of pregnancy, postpartum (up to 6 months after birth or end of pregnancy), breastfeeding - up to infant's 1st birthday; infants - up to 1st birthday; children - up to 5th birthday
