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 Elgin, Illinois families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Elgin, Illinois, 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 Elgin, Illinois, 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 Elgin, Illinois, 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 Elgin, Illinois:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Elgin, Illinois
7-eleven #33135c 33135C
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/18/2021
Address :
1570 N Randall Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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7-Eleven 27616E
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/29/2015
Address :
957 Summit St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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7-eleven 32236C
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/8/2010
Address :
811 E Chicago St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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7-Eleven Store 33918J
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/4/2019
Address :
1024 S McLean Blvd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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Acteca Bakery 1
Store Details :
- Type: Bakery Specialty
- Authorization Date: 3/2/2012
Address :
822 Summit St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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ALDI 40038 40038
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/4/1999
Address :
215 S Randall Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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ALDI 40050 40050
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/3/1993
Address :
799 Summit St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Anurab Petroleum Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/18/2017
Address :
1725 Larkin Ave,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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ARMANDO & SONS
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 11/26/1999
Address :
925 N Liberty St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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ASIAN FOOD MART
Store Details :
- Type: Small Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 1/4/2005
Address :
54B National St,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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Big Lots 4615
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/26/2015
Address :
204 S Randall Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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Bp
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/20/2021
Address :
470 Dundee Ave,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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BP Elgin Gasoline Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/19/2012
Address :
1137 Dundee Ave,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Bp Gas Station
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/19/2014
Address :
816 Saint Charles St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Butera Finer Foods 508
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 12/23/2014
Address :
20 Tyler Creek Plz,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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BUTERA FOODS 585
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 6/5/1990
Address :
3 Clock Tower Plz,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Cakes By One Inc.
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 2/3/2017
Address :
879 Villa St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Circle K 6701
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/17/2011
Address :
2455 South St,
Elgin, IL 60124.
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Circle K 6797
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/3/2013
Address :
460 S McLean Blvd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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CVS 5829
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/10/2007
Address :
500 Dundee Ave,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Dollar General 19104
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/8/2017
Address :
583 N McLean Blvd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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Dollar Tree 3744
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/15/2008
Address :
617 S Randall Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Dollar Tree 5447
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/15/2014
Address :
955 N McLean Blvd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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Elgin Convenience 1 Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/4/2016
Address :
1190 N McLean Blvd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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Elgin Farmers Market
Store Details :
- Type: Farmer's Market
- Authorization Date: 6/15/2021
Address :
31 S Grove Ave,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
Elgin Farmers Market
Store Details :
- Type: Farmer's Market
- Authorization Date: 7/8/2020
Address :
51 Spring Street,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
ELGIN FARMERS PRODUCE, INC.
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 12/3/2010
Address :
306 S McLean Blvd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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Elgin Food & Fuel
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/15/2012
Address :
72 Kimball St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
ELGIN FRUIT MARKET
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 4/4/2001
Address :
822 Summit St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Family Dollar 1987
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/1/2007
Address :
9 Clock Tower Plz,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Family Dollar 3638
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 4/4/2007
Address :
300 S McLean Blvd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Family Dollar Store 7825
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 11/1/2007
Address :
611 Dundee Ave,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Golden Market Of Elgin
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/12/2017
Address :
663 Villa St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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I Mart Stores LLC IL 0093
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/2/2020
Address :
1001 W Irving Park Rd,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
Ires Food Market
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/22/2020
Address :
40 Tyler Creek Plz,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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J.J. PEPPERS FOOD STORE
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/24/1997
Address :
10 S State St,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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Jewel 3291
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/15/1993
Address :
1040 Summit St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Jewel 3313
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 1/1/1930
Address :
1660 Larkin Ave,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Jo Jo Grocery Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Small Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 1/30/2019
Address :
419 Dundee Ave,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
K & P Oriental Food
Store Details :
- Type: Small Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 5/3/2018
Address :
1118 South St,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Larkin Mobil Llc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/25/2019
Address :
1032 Larkin Ave,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Lucky Asian Market DC
Store Details :
- Type: Small Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 12/21/2018
Address :
692 Villa St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
Meijer Gas Station 183
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/5/2020
Address :
801 S Randall Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Meijer Inc 183
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 7/13/2001
Address :
815 S Randall Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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Mr A's Elgin Citgo
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/1/2008
Address :
640 Villa St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
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Paul's Bus Stop Inc.
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/10/2012
Address :
110 W Chicago St,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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Pops Pantry
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/1/2019
Address :
1195 N McLean Blvd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
PRICE RITE GAS & FOOD
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/26/2005
Address :
180 Kimball St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
Pride of Elgin 752
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/3/2014
Address :
1700 N State St,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Sam's Club 4942
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 8/3/2012
Address :
1000 S Randall Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
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Speedway 7514
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/28/2009
Address :
1570 Big Timber Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Speedway 7756
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/14/2012
Address :
1156 Dundee Ave,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
State Street Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/11/2016
Address :
300 S State St,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Stop N Shop
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/21/2015
Address :
455 Bluff City Blvd,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
Super Saver Food Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/25/2011
Address :
776 Walnut Ave,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Supermercado La Salsa
Store Details :
- Type: Large Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 4/13/2015
Address :
879 Villa St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
Supreme Groceries
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 11/9/2020
Address :
2375 Bowes Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Target 834
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 5/19/2009
Address :
300 S Randall Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Vision Gas & Food Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/20/2007
Address :
601 Villa St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
WALGREENS 2986
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 7/19/1993
Address :
815 Summit St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
WALGREENS #7100 07100
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/12/2003
Address :
1700 Larkin Ave,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Walgreens 09439
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/20/2010
Address :
600 Villa St,
Elgin, IL 60120.
Get Directions
Walgreens 12772
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 4/23/2012
Address :
589 N McLean Blvd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Walmart 1814
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/8/2002
Address :
1001 S Randall Rd,
Elgin, IL 60123.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Elgin, Illinois
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Elgin, Illinois:
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 Illinois
| 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 Elgin, Illinois?
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 Elgin, Illinois?
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 Elgin, Illinois.
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.