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 Goleta, California families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Goleta, 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 Goleta, 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 Goleta, 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 Goleta, California:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Goleta, California
7 Eleven Store 15191B
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/9/2014
Address :
7390 Calle Real,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
7-Eleven 18823
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/24/2010
Address :
5810 Hollister Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
7-Eleven 36772A
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/19/2013
Address :
6545 Trigo Rd,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
7-Eleven Store 13888C
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/15/2012
Address :
7443 Hollister Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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Albertson's 354
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 6/1/2006
Address :
7127 Hollister Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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Albertson's 357
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 6/1/2006
Address :
5801 Calle Real,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
Cindy's Produce
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/6/2017
Address :
5858 Hollister Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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Costco Wholesale 0474
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 10/30/2009
Address :
7095 Market Place Dr,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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CVS Pharmacy 9156
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 4/29/2009
Address :
5875 Calle Real,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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CVS Pharmacy CVS11216
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/30/2019
Address :
7030 Hollister Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
DOLLARTREE 7714
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 7/1/2019
Address :
175 N Fairview Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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ISLA VISTA FUD CORP
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 1/1/1930
Address :
6575 Seville Rd,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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ISLA VISTA MARKET
Store Details :
- Type: Large Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 1/1/1930
Address :
939 Embarcadero del Mar,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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La Chapala
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 3/12/2012
Address :
5780 Hollister Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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RITE AID 5791
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/10/2004
Address :
199 N Fairview Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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Rocket 2691
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/21/2021
Address :
165 N Fairview Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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SANTA CRUZ MKT
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 11/12/2008
Address :
5757 Hollister Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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Six Pak Shop Liquor 1
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/9/2016
Address :
6580 Pardall Rd,
Goleta, CA 93117.
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Smart & Final 702
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 11/23/2015
Address :
7090 Hollister Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
Sos Liquor Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/30/2019
Address :
956 Embarcadero del Norte,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
Sprouts Farmers Market 412
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 8/10/2016
Address :
175 N Fairview Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
Target Store 2872
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 9/22/2019
Address :
6865 Hollister Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
The Oriental Market
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/5/2021
Address :
5863 Hollister Ave,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
TRADER JOE'S 110
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 6/30/2003
Address :
5767 Calle Real,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
Walgreens 06289
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/14/2009
Address :
5900 Calle Real,
Goleta, CA 93117.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Goleta, California
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Goleta, 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 Goleta, 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 Goleta, 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 Goleta, 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.