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 Searcy, Arkansas families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Searcy, Arkansas, 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 Searcy, Arkansas, 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 Searcy, Arkansas, 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 Searcy, Arkansas:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Searcy, Arkansas
Big Red 144
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/25/2016
Address :
710 E Beebe Capps,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Buckaroos Watering Hole 3
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/5/2013
Address :
1720 W Beebe Capps Expy,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
CASEY'S GENERAL STORE 3921
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/17/2021
Address :
3400 E Race Ave,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Casey’s General Store #3876 3876
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/24/2020
Address :
2620 W Beebe Capps Expy,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Cash Saver Food Outlet
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 10/26/2011
Address :
600 E Race Ave,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Chicken City
Store Details :
- Type: Meat/Poultry Specialty
- Authorization Date: 5/15/2009
Address :
2212 W Beebe Capps Expy,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Citgo Quik Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/12/2016
Address :
1300 E Race Ave,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
DOLLAR GENERAL 0731
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/15/2004
Address :
3009 E Race Ave,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Dollar General 14623
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/21/2013
Address :
1811 Highway 267 S,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Dollar General 17046
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/20/2016
Address :
2319 Highway 16,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Dollar General 17789
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/27/2017
Address :
4152 W Highway 36,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
DOLLAR GENERAL 4413
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/15/2004
Address :
1701 W Pleasure St,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
DOLLAR GENERAL 9863
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/7/2006
Address :
710 W McRae Ave,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
DOLLAR TREE 2857
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 11/30/2010
Address :
3504 E. Race St,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Dollar Tree 5802
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/8/2015
Address :
1205 W Beebe Capps Expy,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
El Mercado Cavadas
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/2/2017
Address :
1527 E Race Ave,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Exxon
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/23/2019
Address :
2936 S Main St,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Family Dollar Store 2686
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/21/2008
Address :
2223 W Beebe Capps Expy,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Good Measure Market
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/22/2016
Address :
614 S Main St,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Harps Food Store 136
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/19/2008
Address :
2525 W Beebe Capps Expy,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
J & M Meat & Seafood LLC
Store Details :
- Type: Meat/Poultry Specialty
- Authorization Date: 1/12/2012
Address :
106 W Mulberry St,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Jordans Kwik Stop 21
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/23/2009
Address :
211 E Race Ave,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
KROGER FOOD STORE 640
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/1/1930
Address :
1601 E Race Ave,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Local Farm To Fork Butcher Shop 2
Store Details :
- Type: Meat/Poultry Specialty
- Authorization Date: 2/2/2021
Address :
308 E Beebe Capps Expy,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Love's Travel Stop 557
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/6/2014
Address :
2505 Queensway St,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Morning Sun Dollar Store
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/8/2019
Address :
3589 Highway 367 S,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Searcy Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/30/2015
Address :
401 N Maple St,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Searcy Shell
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/30/2021
Address :
1250 Truman Baker Dr,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
WALGREENS 09766
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/16/2006
Address :
200 E Race Ave,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Walmart Neighborhood Market 2431
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/9/2013
Address :
1330 W Beebe Capps Expy,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Walmart SUPERCENTER 157
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 10/28/1992
Address :
3509 E Race Ave,
Searcy, AR 72143.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Searcy, Arkansas
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Searcy, Arkansas:
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 Arkansas
| 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 Searcy, Arkansas?
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 Searcy, Arkansas?
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 Searcy, Arkansas.
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.