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 Columbia, Maryland families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Columbia, Maryland, 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 Columbia, Maryland, 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 Columbia, Maryland, 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 Columbia, Maryland:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Columbia, Maryland
7-eleven 38648a
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/22/2020
Address :
10730 Little Patuxent Pkwy,
Columbia, MD 21044.
Get Directions
7-eleven 40062a
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/27/2020
Address :
8251 Snowden River Pkwy,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
7-Eleven Inc F 11704
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/19/2009
Address :
5740 Columbia Rd,
Columbia, MD 21044.
Get Directions
7-Eleven Inc F 39563A
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/26/2012
Address :
8850 Centre Park Dr,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
African Foods Wholesaler N/A
Store Details :
- Type: Small Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 3/24/2021
Address :
9515 Gerwig Ln,
Columbia, MD 21046.
Get Directions
B Js Wholesale Club 60
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/23/2009
Address :
9011 Snowden River Pkwy,
Columbia, MD 21046.
Get Directions
Big Lots 5155
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/23/2015
Address :
6171 Columbia Cross,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Cradlerock Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/6/2016
Address :
6810 Cradlerock Way,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
CVS PHARMACY #10094 10094
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/5/2014
Address :
5405 Lynx Ln,
Columbia, MD 21044.
Get Directions
CVS Pharmacy 1517
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 7/17/2009
Address :
8640 Guilford Rd,
Columbia, MD 21046.
Get Directions
Davids Natural Market
Store Details :
- Type: Large Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 9/28/2001
Address :
5410 Lynx Ln,
Columbia, MD 21044.
Get Directions
Dollar Tree 1088
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/2/2008
Address :
7180 Cradlerock Way,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
GIANT FOOD 111
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 6/11/1992
Address :
6480 Freetown Rd,
Columbia, MD 21044.
Get Directions
GIANT FOOD 155
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 10/4/1978
Address :
7200 Cradlerock Way,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
GIANT FOOD 300
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 10/8/2003
Address :
8805 Centre Park Dr,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Harris Teeter 322
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 4/16/2008
Address :
8620 Guilford Rd,
Columbia, MD 21046.
Get Directions
Howard International Market
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/8/2021
Address :
8775 Cloudleap Ct,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Huntington Deli Market
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/6/2018
Address :
7635 Murray Hill Rd,
Columbia, MD 21046.
Get Directions
La Mart Oakland Mills
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 2/27/2019
Address :
5896 Robert Oliver Pl,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Lidl 1450
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 5/14/2021
Address :
10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy,
Columbia, MD 21044.
Get Directions
Lolly
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/16/2017
Address :
7060 Oakland Mills Rd,
Columbia, MD 21046.
Get Directions
Masala Bazaar
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 7/14/2014
Address :
9050 Red Branch Rd,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Mercadito Express, Llc
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 10/11/2018
Address :
6490 Dobbin Rd,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Nazar Produce
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 4/21/2010
Address :
6955 Oakland Mills Rd,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Quick Stop Food Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/10/2009
Address :
10750 Hickory Ridge Rd,
Columbia, MD 21044.
Get Directions
Royal Farms 186
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/24/2020
Address :
7084 Minstrel Way,
Columbia, MD 21046.
Get Directions
ROYAL FARMS 85
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/6/2011
Address :
8755 Centre Park Dr,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
SAFEWAY 1553
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 1/22/1998
Address :
5485 Harpers Farm Rd Ste A,
Columbia, MD 21044.
Get Directions
Sam's Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/27/2010
Address :
5801 Stevens Forest Rd,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Target Stores 1044
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 5/20/2009
Address :
6111 Dobbin Rd,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Walgreens 11949
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/20/2011
Address :
5585 Twin Knolls Rd,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Walmart 5228
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 12/17/2003
Address :
6405 Dobbin Rd,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Wegmans 47
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 5/24/2012
Address :
8855 McGaw Rd,
Columbia, MD 21045.
Get Directions
Whole Foods Market 10499
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 8/5/2014
Address :
10275 Little Patuxent Pkwy,
Columbia, MD 21044.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Columbia, Maryland
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Columbia, Maryland:
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 Maryland
| 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 Columbia, Maryland?
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 Columbia, Maryland?
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 Columbia, Maryland.
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.