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 La Mesa, California families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in La Mesa, 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 La Mesa, 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 La Mesa, 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 La Mesa, California:
Stores Accept WIC Card in La Mesa, California
5 Star Market & Liquor
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/2/2019
Address :
7495 University Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
7 Eleven 13649 E
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/12/2011
Address :
5746 Amaya Dr,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
7 Q LIQUOR
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/10/2005
Address :
7401 El Cajon Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
7-Eleven 13647G
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/20/2010
Address :
8300 Parkway Dr,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
7-eleven 13664
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/12/2011
Address :
4610 Avocado Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
7-Eleven 17945
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/2/2010
Address :
7602 University Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
7-Eleven 35683
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/4/2013
Address :
8747 La Mesa Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
7-Eleven 36812
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/6/2015
Address :
7006 University Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
7-eleven Store 16119f 16119F
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/2/2021
Address :
5255 Baltimore Dr,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
7-Eleven Store 21453H
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/7/2020
Address :
5650 Baltimore Dr,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
7-eleven Store 35752b
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/11/2018
Address :
4200 Spring St,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
70th Street Shell
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/4/2020
Address :
5151 70th St,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
99 CENTS ONLY STORES 150
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/11/2002
Address :
7908 El Cajon Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
A & W Liquor
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/5/2011
Address :
7021 University Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
ALBERTSONS 710
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 6/1/2006
Address :
8920 Fletcher Pkwy,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Big Lots 4047
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 4/15/2013
Address :
6145 Lake Murray Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Bottle Rack Liquor
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/27/2020
Address :
5307 Lake Murray Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
CIRCLE K 7964
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/8/2011
Address :
8899 La Mesa Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Costco Wholesale 0469
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 10/30/2009
Address :
8125 Fletcher Pkwy,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
CVS Pharmacy 9162
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 4/7/2009
Address :
3749 Avocado Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
CVS Pharmacy 9169
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 2/20/2009
Address :
5500 Grossmont Center Dr,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Dollar Tree 3757
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/24/2008
Address :
5500 Grossmont Center Dr,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Emerald Oil
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/5/2011
Address :
5600 Baltimore Dr,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Excalibur Liquor
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/8/2018
Address :
5575 Baltimore Dr,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Frazier Farms Market 3
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 9/8/2020
Address :
8401 Fletcher Pkwy,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
G&M 38
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/7/2021
Address :
8200 University Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Himalayan Bazaar
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/18/2012
Address :
7918 El Cajon Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Keg N Bottle 9
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/5/2018
Address :
3773 Avocado Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
Lake Murray Liquor
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/5/2016
Address :
6001 Lake Murray Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Mart Liquor
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/28/2021
Address :
8695 La Mesa Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Massachusetts Arco 42503
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/2/2016
Address :
3775 Massachusetts Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
Multi-Site Management LLC 804
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/10/2020
Address :
7974 University Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Murray Lake Liquor
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/8/2012
Address :
5395 Lake Murray Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
PALM SPRINGS MARKET
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/7/2004
Address :
4301 Palm Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
Parkway Market
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/18/2015
Address :
9085 Dallas St,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
SAMS MARKET
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/24/2005
Address :
7587 University Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Sierra Market
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/24/2019
Address :
3834 Massachusetts Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
Smart & Final 934
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 2/23/2016
Address :
3681 Avocado Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
Spring Street Gas And Mini Market 83002
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/3/2012
Address :
4925 Spring St,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Sprouts Farmers Market 225
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/31/2011
Address :
4630 Palm Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
Target Store T-0997
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 10/26/2006
Address :
5500 Grossmont Ctr Dr,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
TRADER JOE'S 24
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/1/2001
Address :
5495 Grossmont Center Dr,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Viking Liquor
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/5/2013
Address :
8725 Broadway,
La Mesa, CA 91941.
Get Directions
Vine Ripe Market
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 8/7/2014
Address :
8191 Fletcher Pkwy,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Von's 3327
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 2/22/2016
Address :
5630 Lake Murray Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
VONS 2093
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 12/7/1989
Address :
8011 University Ave,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Walmart Neighborhood Market 5684
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 8/23/2012
Address :
8810 Grossmont Blvd,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Walmart SuperCenter 5140
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 3/25/2004
Address :
5500 Grossmont Center Dr,
La Mesa, CA 91942.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in La Mesa, California
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in La Mesa, 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 La Mesa, 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 La Mesa, 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 La Mesa, 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.