If you are a new mom or an expectant mother, you might be wondering what WIC is all about and how to locate a WIC store. This guide is here to help you understand what WIC is, how it works, and where to find a WIC store.
What is WIC?
WIC is the USDA Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. WIC provides nutrition and breastfeeding services and supplemental foods to pregnant women, new mothers, infants and children up to their 5th birthday.
WIC gives you resources, knowledge and tools to help you and support your family.
It’s free for moms, dads, grandparents, foster parents and all in Marion, Iowa families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Marion, Iowa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Live in the state where you apply for WIC.
- Be a pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum woman, an infant, or a child under the age of five.
- Be at nutritional risk, which means that there is a medical or dietary condition that can be improved by participating in the WIC program.
- Meet the income guidelines in Marion, Iowa, which vary by state.
Benefits of WIC
There are four key parts to the WIC program:
1. Healthy Foods. WIC foods include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt, peanut butter/beans, cereal, juice, infant foods and formula.
2. Breastfeeding Support. WIC provides breastfeeding education, support, and breast pumps to qualifying participants.
3. Nutrition Education. Nutrition information, tools and solutions for parenting, nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.
4. Health Care Referrals. Personalized referrals to health services and other community resources.
How to apply for WIC
To apply for WIC in Marion, Iowa, follow these steps:
1. Find a local WIC agency: Use the WIC agency locator on your state Department of Health and Human Services website to find a WIC agency near you.
2. Make an appointment: Call the WIC agency to schedule an appointment. Be prepared to provide information about your income, residency, and family size.
3. Attend the appointment: At the appointment, you will meet with a WIC staff member who will assess your nutritional risk and provide nutrition education.
4. Receive WIC checks: If you are eligible, you will receive WIC checks that can be used to purchase WIC-approved foods at a WIC store.
What to expect during the WIC appointment
- Check your height and weight to determine your body mass index (BMI).
- Take a blood sample to test for anemia.
- Discuss your medical and dietary history to determine your nutritional risk.
- Provide nutrition education on healthy eating, breastfeeding, and infant feeding.
WIC Stores
WIC benefits are widely accepted for eligible food items at various stores in Marion, Iowa:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Marion, Iowa
Aldi Inc 001
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 1/1/1930
Address :
1001 50th St,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
Bp To Go 1010
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/22/2021
Address :
1010 E Post Rd,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Casey's General Store 2760
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/7/2006
Address :
975 S 11th St,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Casey's General Store 2770
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/7/2006
Address :
2020 7th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Casey's General Store 2919
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/15/2010
Address :
340 Marion Blvd,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
Casey's General Store 2924
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/2/2010
Address :
1100 Eagleview Dr,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Caseys General Store 3562
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/21/2016
Address :
680 Lindale Dr,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
Corner Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/9/2021
Address :
998 8th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
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CVS Pharmacy 10032
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/6/2012
Address :
3499 7th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Dollar General 7226
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/27/2004
Address :
1135 E Post Rd,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Dollar General 7398
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/27/2004
Address :
5000 Chandler Ct,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Dollar Tree 7608
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/19/2018
Address :
2504 7th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Fareway Stores Inc 949
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 11/8/1994
Address :
3300 10th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Fas Mart 5146
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/28/2015
Address :
998 8th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Hy-Vee Food Store 1396
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/1/1930
Address :
3600 Highway 151,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
Hy-Vee Gas 5396
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/23/2005
Address :
3600 Highway 151,
Marion, IA 52302.
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HyVee Fast and Fresh 7560
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/7/2005
Address :
2790 7th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Kum & Go 503
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/4/2008
Address :
3215 7th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Kum & Go 509
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/19/2012
Address :
1203 Blairs Ferry Rd,
Marion, IA 52302.
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Kwik Star 1008
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/3/2018
Address :
5992 Carlson Way,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
Kwik Star 589
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/19/2020
Address :
962 62nd Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
Neighborhood Tobacco Outlet
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/7/2021
Address :
2500 7th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
Papa Murphy's Pizza IA007
Store Details :
- Type: Bakery Specialty
- Authorization Date: 5/7/1999
Address :
2240 7th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
Schwans Home Service Marion Depot 101040
Store Details :
- Type: Delivery Route
- Authorization Date: 8/6/1990
Address :
3781 4th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
United Petroleum Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/15/2019
Address :
5005 10th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
Walgreens 3876
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/5/1998
Address :
1225 7th Ave,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
Walmart SC 3630
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 12/7/2005
Address :
5491 Highway 151,
Marion, IA 52302.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Marion, Iowa
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Marion, Iowa:
1. Plan ahead: Before going to the store, make a list of the WIC-approved foods you need to purchase.
2. Check expiration dates: Make sure to check the expiration dates on all food items before purchasing them.
3. Don't forget your WIC checks: Make sure to bring your WIC checks with you to the store.
4. Ask for help: If you have any questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to ask a WIC store staff member for help.
Free Food Programs Summary
| Acronym | Name | For Moms & Kids | For Seniors | For Food Bank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program | Yes | Yes | No |
| WIC | Women, Infants, and Children | Yes | No | No |
| TEFAP | The Emergency Food Assistance Program | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| CSFP | The Commodity Supplemental Food Program | No | Yes | Yes |
| CACFP | The Child and Adult Care Food Program | Yes | Yes | No |
| NSLP | The National School Lunch Program | Yes | No | No |
| SBP | The School Breakfast Program | Yes | No | No |
| SFSP | The Summer Food Service Program | Yes | No | No |
Federal Poverty Limit in Iowa
| POVERTY LIMIT FOR THE 48 CONTIGUOUS STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA | ||
|---|---|---|
| Persons in Family | Poverty Limit(100%) | Poverty Limit(200%) |
| 1 | $14,580 | $29,160 |
| 2 | $19,720 | $39,440 |
| 3 | $24,860 | $49,720 |
| 4 | $30,000 | $60,000 |
| 5 | $35,140 | $70,280 |
| 6 | $40,280 | $80,560 |
| 7 | $45,420 | $90,840 |
| 8 | $50,560 | $101,120 |
| For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $5,140 for each additional person. | ||
FAQ(Frequently Asked Questions)
1.What is the income limit to qualify for WIC Marion, Iowa?
The income limit to qualify for WIC varies by state and household size. Check Federal Poverty Limit above for your state.
2. Can I apply for WIC if I am an undocumented immigrant?
Yes, undocumented immigrants may be eligible for WIC if they meet the other eligibility requirements. WIC is a non-cash benefit, so it does not affect immigration status.
3. How often can I visit a WIC store Marion, Iowa?
WIC participants are typically required to visit a WIC store once a month to pick up their food benefits.
4. Can I use my WIC benefits at any grocery store?
No, WIC benefits can only be used at WIC-approved stores Marion, Iowa.
4. Can I use my WIC card in another state ?
You can not use one state WIC card in another state. However if you relocate to another state can go to that state WIC agency to update WIC card for that state.
The new agency will verify your eligibility, and you can continue to receive benefits in the new state.
5. What should I do if I lose my WIC checks?
If you lose your WIC checks, contact your local WIC agency immediately to request replacement checks.