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 Highland, Illinois families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Highland, 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 Highland, 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 Highland, 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 Highland, Illinois:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Highland, Illinois
Casey's General Store 1972
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/12/2011
Address :
315 Broadway,
Highland, IL 62249.
Get Directions
CC Food Mart 11
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/13/2012
Address :
920 Broadway,
Highland, IL 62249.
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CC Food Mart 4
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/31/2011
Address :
3410 George St,
Highland, IL 62249.
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Circle K 1352
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/9/2013
Address :
12587 State Route 143,
Highland, IL 62249.
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CVS 6926
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/8/2002
Address :
12630 State Route 143,
Highland, IL 62249.
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DOLLAR GENERAL 3028
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/7/2004
Address :
2671 Northtown Way,
Highland, IL 62249.
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Dollar General 21243
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 7/5/2019
Address :
1304 Broadway,
Highland, IL 62249.
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Dollar Tree 6046
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/28/2015
Address :
1016 Broadway,
Highland, IL 62249.
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Grantfork Meats, Inc.
Store Details :
- Type: Small Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 4/9/2013
Address :
4878 State Route 160,
Highland, IL 62249.
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Highland Motomart 3114
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/29/2014
Address :
700 Broadway,
Highland, IL 62249.
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HIGHLAND'S TRU-BUY INC
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 9/11/1979
Address :
610 Broadway,
Highland, IL 62249.
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KORTE MEAT PROCESSING
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 9/12/2006
Address :
810 Deal St,
Highland, IL 62249.
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Ruler 320
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 3/6/2015
Address :
2675 Northtown Way,
Highland, IL 62249.
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Walgreens 01309
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 7/20/2005
Address :
110 Walnut St,
Highland, IL 62249.
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Walmart SUPERCENTER 435
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 2/26/2001
Address :
12495 State Route 143,
Highland, IL 62249.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Highland, Illinois
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Highland, 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 Highland, 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 Highland, 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 Highland, 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.