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 Carlsbad, California families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Carlsbad, California, 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 Carlsbad, California, 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 Carlsbad, California, 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 Carlsbad, California:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Carlsbad, California
7 Eleven 39310
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/9/2011
Address :
1089 Carlsbad Village Dr,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
Get Directions
7-Eleven 13601G
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/25/2012
Address :
201 Oak Ave,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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7-Eleven Store 27109D 27109D
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/9/2020
Address :
901 Palomar Airport Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92011.
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7-Eleven Store 32942B
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/20/2016
Address :
5802 Van Allen Way,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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Bressi Ranch Fuel Mart LLC
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/13/2011
Address :
2741 Gateway Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
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Carlsbad Fuel & Convenience
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/17/2021
Address :
7602 El Camino Real,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
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Chevron 1726
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/13/2015
Address :
970 Tamarack Ave,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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Chevron 1978
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/9/2015
Address :
2500 El Camino Real,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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Chevron Station #2021 2021
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/21/2020
Address :
3452 Via Mercato,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
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Circle K 2655626
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/30/2013
Address :
3110 Roosevelt St,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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Costco Wholesale 0462
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 10/30/2009
Address :
951 Palomar Airport Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92011.
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CVS Pharmacy 9479
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/22/2008
Address :
2510 El Camino Real,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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CVS Pharmacy 9528
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/22/2008
Address :
7740 Rancho Santa Fe Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
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CVS Pharmacy CVS10743
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/31/2019
Address :
2650 Gateway Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
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Dollar Tree 2521
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/14/2005
Address :
1838 Marron Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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El Torito Market
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 1/27/2016
Address :
3163 Roosevelt St,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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G&M 196
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/30/2021
Address :
920 Carlsbad Village Dr,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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G&M 46
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/30/2021
Address :
850 Palomar Airpt Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92011.
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Gelson's Markets 26
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 2/1/2016
Address :
7660 El Camino Real,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
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Jacksons Food Stores 228
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/14/2021
Address :
665 Palomar Airport Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92011.
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Jimbos Natural Family Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 2/5/2008
Address :
1923 Calle Barcelona,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
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Palomar Airport Arco
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/6/2013
Address :
1991 Palomar Airport Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92011.
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Ralphs Fresh Fare 175
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/27/1989
Address :
7140 AVENIDA ENCINAS,
Carlsbad, CA 92011.
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Rite Aid 5621
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/11/2005
Address :
955 Tamarack Ave,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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Rite Aid 5622
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/11/2005
Address :
7100 Avenida Encinas,
Carlsbad, CA 92011.
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Smart & Final 928
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/6/2016
Address :
955 Carlsbad Village Dr,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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Sprouts Farmers Market 239
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/31/2011
Address :
2618 El Camino Real,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
Get Directions
Sprouts Farmers Market 247
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/31/2011
Address :
3243 Camino de Los Coches,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
Get Directions
Sprouts Farmers Market 416
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 1/28/2019
Address :
2634 Gateway Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
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Stater Bros. Markets 186
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 1/8/2009
Address :
2687 Gateway Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
Get Directions
Store 6237
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/10/2019
Address :
1145 Carlsbad Village Dr,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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Trader Joes 220
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 2/4/2009
Address :
2629 Gateway Rd,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
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VONS 2065
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 11/20/1996
Address :
6951 El Camino Real,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
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VONS 2142
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 1/1/1930
Address :
2560 El Camino Real,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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VONS 2343
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 12/14/1988
Address :
985 Tamarack Ave,
Carlsbad, CA 92008.
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Vons 2724
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 11/3/2014
Address :
3439 Via Montebello,
Carlsbad, CA 92009.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Carlsbad, California
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Carlsbad, California:
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 California
| 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 Carlsbad, California?
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 Carlsbad, California?
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 Carlsbad, California.
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.