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 Oswego, Illinois families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Oswego, 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 Oswego, 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 Oswego, 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 Oswego, Illinois:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Oswego, Illinois
7-Eleven 27099
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/19/2010
Address :
2 E Merchants Dr,
Oswego, IL 60543.
Get Directions
7-Eleven Store 38672H
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/14/2020
Address :
244 E Washington St,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Aldi 74
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 5/28/2009
Address :
540 5th St,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Bp Oswego
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/2/2020
Address :
6501 US Highway 34,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Bucky's 546
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/23/2019
Address :
6551 Route 34,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Circle K 6753
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/20/2010
Address :
1190 US Highway 34,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Circle K 6822
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/17/2012
Address :
160 Douglas Rd,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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DOLLARTREE 8844
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/15/2021
Address :
2520 Hwy 34,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Dp's Mart Llc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/9/2021
Address :
1240 Douglas Rd,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Energymart Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/23/2018
Address :
55 Chicago Rd,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Jewel 2481
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/18/2008
Address :
3795 Orchard Rd,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Jewel 3138
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 11/9/1989
Address :
2540 US Rte 30,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Liane's Family Pantry And Liquor
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/29/2015
Address :
4574 State Route 71,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Meijer Gas Station 239
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/6/2020
Address :
2720 Route 34,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Meijer Inc 239
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 4/25/2007
Address :
2700 US Highway 34,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Oswego Food Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/13/2019
Address :
100 Light Rd,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Oswego Petroleum Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/9/2016
Address :
2501 Light Rd,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Shree Sudarsan BP Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/21/2019
Address :
2791 Route 34,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Speedway 1417
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/15/2012
Address :
4032 US Highway 34,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Speedway 2120
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/19/2015
Address :
1830 Us Route 30,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Target Store 1402
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 12/26/2006
Address :
3020 US Highway 34,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Walgreens 01484
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/1/2009
Address :
3401 Orchard Rd,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Walgreens 05824
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/18/2007
Address :
410 Chicago Rd,
Oswego, IL 60543.
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Walmart Supercenter 3400
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 6/20/2007
Address :
2300 US Highway 34,
Oswego, IL 60543.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Oswego, Illinois
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Oswego, 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 Oswego, 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 Oswego, 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 Oswego, 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.