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 Tehachapi, California families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Tehachapi, 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 Tehachapi, 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 Tehachapi, 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 Tehachapi, California:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Tehachapi, California
98 Cent Store
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/20/2020
Address :
605 Linden Ct,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Albertsons 1347
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 6/1/2006
Address :
775 Tucker Rd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Circle K 2720010
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/1/1930
Address :
302 E Tehachapi Blvd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Dollar General Market 14138
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 11/22/2013
Address :
846 Tucker Rd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
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Dollar Tree 2430
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/8/2007
Address :
844 Tucker Rd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Johnnys Take And Bake
Store Details :
- Type: Bakery Specialty
- Authorization Date: 6/12/2019
Address :
807 Tucker Rd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Love's Travel Stop 392
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/19/2010
Address :
2000 E Tehachapi Blvd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Mt Village Express. Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/28/2020
Address :
107 S Mill St,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Pilot Travel Center 1094
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/29/2017
Address :
1688 E Tehahcapi Blvd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
RITE AID 5847
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/9/2004
Address :
811 Tucker Rd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Save Mart 64
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 2/2/1989
Address :
841 Tucker Rd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
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St. Mary Gas & Mini Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/13/2021
Address :
128 E Tehachapi Blvd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
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Stallion Springs General Store
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/7/2010
Address :
27750 Stallion Springs Dr,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
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Sunnyview Gas Spot
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/22/2012
Address :
1050 Capitol Hills Pkwy,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Tehachapi Fastrip
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/7/2009
Address :
798 Tucker Rd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
The Butcher Shop
Store Details :
- Type: Meat/Poultry Specialty
- Authorization Date: 3/17/2021
Address :
20601 State Highway 202,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Walgreens 07555
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/16/2005
Address :
1101 W Tehachapi Blvd,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Walmart Supercenter 4317
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 7/2/2019
Address :
400 Tucker Road,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Wildrose Station
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/26/2016
Address :
20436 Brian Way,
Tehachapi, CA 93561.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Tehachapi, California
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Tehachapi, 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 Tehachapi, 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 Tehachapi, 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 Tehachapi, 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.