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 Encinitas, California families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Encinitas, 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 Encinitas, 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 Encinitas, 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 Encinitas, California:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Encinitas, California
7 Eleven 13620
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/3/2010
Address :
592 Santa Fe Dr,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
Get Directions
7 Eleven 18087
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/3/2010
Address :
105 W D St,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
Get Directions
7 Eleven Store 2112-39526
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/18/2012
Address :
1766 N Coast Highway 101,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
Get Directions
7-ELEVEN 13627 13627
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/15/2010
Address :
102 Leucadia Blvd,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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7-Eleven 21805
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/5/2014
Address :
2240 Encinitas Blvd,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
Get Directions
7-eleven Store 24335f 24335F
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/20/2021
Address :
1988 Village Park Way,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
Get Directions
99 CENTS ONLY STORES 169
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 4/30/2002
Address :
145 S El Camino Real,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
Get Directions
Aldi 104
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 2/12/2019
Address :
333 N El Camino Real,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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Chevron 1943
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/9/2015
Address :
540 La Costa Ave,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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CVS Pharmacy 9135
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 4/7/2009
Address :
129 N El Camino Real,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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CVS Pharmacy 9181
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/16/2008
Address :
455 Encinitas Blvd,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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Dollar Tree 4162
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/2/2009
Address :
218 N El Camino Real,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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Harvest Ranch Market #2
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 2/8/2012
Address :
162 S Rancho Santa Fe Rd,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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Lazy Acres 25
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/21/2016
Address :
150 Encinitas Blvd,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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RALPHS GROCERY 168
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/1/1930
Address :
125 N El Camino Real,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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Rite Aid 06465
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 11/20/2009
Address :
4455 Manchester Ave,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
Get Directions
RITE AID 5627
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/11/2005
Address :
439 Santa Fe Dr,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
Get Directions
Smart & Final 427
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 3/27/2009
Address :
479 Encinitas Blvd,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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Sprouts Farmers Market 224
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/31/2011
Address :
1327 Encinitas Blvd,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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Stater Bros. Markets 158
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 10/23/1996
Address :
1048 N El Camino Real,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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Target Store T-1029
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 6/11/2009
Address :
1010 N El Camino Real,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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TRADER JOE'S 25
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/1/2001
Address :
115 N El Camino Real,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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VONS 2144
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 6/28/1995
Address :
262 N El Camino Real,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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VONS 2859
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 12/14/1988
Address :
453 Santa Fe Dr,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
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Walgreens 11653
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 11/24/2009
Address :
1320 Encinitas Blvd,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
Get Directions
Walmart SuperCenter 5886
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 5/1/2012
Address :
1550 Leucadia Blvd,
Encinitas, CA 92024.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Encinitas, California
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Encinitas, 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 Encinitas, 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 Encinitas, 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 Encinitas, 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.