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 Rancho Santa Margarita, California families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Rancho Santa Margarita, 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, California:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Rancho Santa Margarita, California
Big Lots 4564
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 2/24/2014
Address :
30501 Avenida De La Rancho,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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Circle K 2709428
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/23/2013
Address :
31521 Santa Margarita Pkwy,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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CVS Pharmacy 6770
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/27/2004
Address :
22361 ANTONIO PKWY,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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El Fenix Carniceria
Store Details :
- Type: Small Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 3/2/2010
Address :
29941 Aventura,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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Ralphs Fresh Fare 78
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 2/14/1989
Address :
31481 Santa Margarita Pkwy,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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RITE AID 5758
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/10/2005
Address :
31541 Santa Margarita Pkwy,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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Store 6388
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/10/2019
Address :
30144 Santa Margarita Pkwy,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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Target Store T-0914
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 8/17/2005
Address :
30602 Santa Margarita Pkwy,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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TRADER JOE'S 27
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 9/15/2003
Address :
30652 Santa Margarita Pkwy,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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VONS 2217
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/18/1992
Address :
22451 Antonio Pkwy,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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Walgreens 12916
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/27/2009
Address :
30592 Santa Margarita Pkwy,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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Walmart Neighborhood Market 5600
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 7/10/2012
Address :
30491 Avenida de Las Flores,
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
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Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Rancho Santa Margarita, California
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Rancho Santa Margarita, 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, 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 Rancho Santa Margarita, 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.