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 Calera, Alabama families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Calera, Alabama, 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 Calera, Alabama, 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 Calera, Alabama, 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 Calera, Alabama:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Calera, Alabama
Airport Shell
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/12/2019
Address :
60 Highway 87,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Berlin Farmers Market NAFMNP
Store Details :
- Type: Farmer's Market
- Authorization Date: 6/1/2020
Address :
50 Mt. Carmen Dr,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Calera Chevron
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/28/2020
Address :
11431 Highway 25,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Calera Food Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/4/2020
Address :
8130 Highway 31,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Calera Petro N/A
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/14/2019
Address :
10380 Highway 25,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
CIRCLE K 2704893
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/10/2020
Address :
5133 Highway 31,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
CVS PHARMACY 467
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/27/2010
Address :
8370 Highway 31,
Calera, AL 35040.
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Discount Food Mart 5175
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/8/2010
Address :
8361 Highway 31,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Dogtown Chevron 8
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/8/2021
Address :
5900 Highway 31,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Dollar General 4417
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/11/2005
Address :
11040 Highway 25,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Dollar Tree 1881
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/19/2017
Address :
5075 Highway 31,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Family Dollar Store 1946
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/24/2007
Address :
8154 Highway 31,
Calera, AL 35040.
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FLOWERS BAKERY THRIFT STORE 0122
Store Details :
- Type: Bakery Specialty
- Authorization Date: 9/20/2004
Address :
500 George Roy Pkwy,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Publix 1281
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 4/15/2010
Address :
90 Marketplace Cir,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
SAV MOR ASSOCIATED FOODS
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 1/1/1930
Address :
11028 Highway 25,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Sd Food Mart Citgo
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/28/2021
Address :
8000 Highway 31,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Sysco Central Alabama, Inc. 46
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 5/26/2020
Address :
1000 Sysco Dr,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Walgreens 7014
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/5/2007
Address :
1713 Highway 31,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Walmart Supercenter 3271
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 6/1/2001
Address :
5100 Highway 31,
Calera, AL 35040.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Calera, Alabama
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Calera, Alabama:
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 Alabama
| 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 Calera, Alabama?
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 Calera, Alabama?
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 Calera, Alabama.
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.