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 Monterey, California families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Monterey, 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 Monterey, 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 Monterey, 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 Monterey, California:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Monterey, California
7 Eleven 2367 33011C
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/27/2018
Address :
425 Canyon del Rey Blvd,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
7 Eleven 2367-38403a 38403A
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/11/2019
Address :
398 Lighthouse Ave,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
7 Eleven 25784c 25784C
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/17/2017
Address :
381 David Ave,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
7-Eleven 23135C
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/22/2014
Address :
2301 Fremont St,
Monterey, CA 93940.
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Andronico's Community Market 173
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 11/14/2018
Address :
900 Lighthouse Ave,
Monterey, CA 93940.
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Chevron 1715
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/16/2015
Address :
2400 Fremont St,
Monterey, CA 93940.
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CVS Pharmacy 9320
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 2/20/2009
Address :
686 Lighthouse Ave,
Monterey, CA 93940.
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CVS Pharmacy 9802
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 4/23/2009
Address :
2170 Fremont St,
Monterey, CA 93940.
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Dollar Tree 6178
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/14/2015
Address :
2222 N Fremont St,
Monterey, CA 93940.
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Elroy's Fine Foods
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/20/2020
Address :
15 Soledad Dr,
Monterey, CA 93940.
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International Market & Deli
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 3/1/2016
Address :
580 Lighthouse Ave,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
Monterey Bay Cfm At Mpc
Store Details :
- Type: Farmer's Market
- Authorization Date: 11/21/2017
Address :
980 Fremont St,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
ORD COMMUNITY COMMISSARY 1513
Store Details :
- Type: Military Commissary
- Authorization Date: 1/1/1930
Address :
Gigling Rd,
Monterey, CA 93944.
Get Directions
Peninsula Produce
Store Details :
- Type: Fruits/Veg Specialty
- Authorization Date: 8/24/2016
Address :
2400 Del Monte Ave,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
Quik Stop Market 9090
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/22/2014
Address :
2407 Fremont St,
Monterey, CA 93940.
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RITE AID 5882
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/23/2004
Address :
1301 MUNRAS AVE,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
Rite Aid 6769
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/3/2016
Address :
499 Alvarado St,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
Safeway 2841
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 2/15/2007
Address :
815 Canyon del Rey Blvd,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
Speedway 1972
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/3/2019
Address :
2338 Del Monte Ave,
Monterey, CA 93940.
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Trader Joes 204
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 10/15/2007
Address :
570 Munras Ave,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
Walgreens 07081
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/31/2009
Address :
416 Alvarado St,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
Whole Foods Market 10087
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 6/30/1998
Address :
800 Del Monte Ctr,
Monterey, CA 93940.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Monterey, California
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Monterey, 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 Monterey, 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 Monterey, 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 Monterey, 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.