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 Essex, Maryland families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Essex, 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 Essex, 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 Essex, 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 Essex, Maryland:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Essex, Maryland
7-eleven 11631c
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/6/2021
Address :
200 Back River Neck Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
7-ELEVEN 17553B
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/22/2009
Address :
1921 EASTERN BLVD,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
7-eleven 27335c
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/9/2020
Address :
836 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
7-Eleven 35028H
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/25/2018
Address :
25 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
7-Eleven Store 11631K
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/24/2020
Address :
200 Back River Neck Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
ALDI INC 22
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/10/2005
Address :
1600 Old Eastern Ave,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Angi Llc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/22/2020
Address :
701 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Back River Otr 25748
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/18/2011
Address :
100 Back River Neck Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Carroll Market I
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/5/2017
Address :
101 Back River Neck Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
CVS PHARMACY 2865
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 7/15/2004
Address :
500 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Dollar General 13163
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/1/2012
Address :
215 Back River Neck Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Dollar General 15571
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/12/2015
Address :
525 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Dollar Tree 1695
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/13/2005
Address :
1330 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Dollar Tree 6351
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/17/2016
Address :
1518 Country Ridge Ln,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
DUDEKS OLD TIME BUTCHER
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/22/1988
Address :
208 Mace Ave,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
El Mercadito Latino
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/13/2013
Address :
131 Back River Neck Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Essex Fuel Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/13/2018
Address :
220 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Family Dollar 5318
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 2/8/2017
Address :
1300 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Family Dollar 8377
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/13/2010
Address :
1518 Country Ridge Ln,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Food Lion 1653
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 11/9/2000
Address :
1565 Hyde Park Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Fruitland Crabland
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/7/2020
Address :
120 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
FRUITLAND PRODUCE
Store Details :
- Type: Fruits/Veg Specialty
- Authorization Date: 11/12/2020
Address :
106 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Graceland International Foods
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 12/3/2009
Address :
1548 Country Ridge Ln,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
La Afrik International Market
Store Details :
- Type: Small Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 5/11/2021
Address :
25 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Middleborough Grocery
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/4/2019
Address :
1924 Middleborough Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
One Stop Convenience
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/11/2019
Address :
321 Stemmers Run Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Redlite Market
Store Details :
- Type: Small Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 9/29/2021
Address :
146 Back River Neck Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
RITE AID 373
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/9/2002
Address :
1340 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
ROYAL FARMS 02
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/20/1982
Address :
898 S Marlyn Ave,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
ROYAL FARMS 104
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/28/2007
Address :
1010 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
ROYAL FARMS 15
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/20/1982
Address :
1601 Middleborough Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
ROYAL FARMS 29
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/20/1982
Address :
627 Mace Ave,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Save A Lot 548
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 2/9/2010
Address :
116 Stemmers Run Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Shoppers Food Warehouse 2286
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 11/9/1981
Address :
1200 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Steamin Demons
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/20/2021
Address :
603 Eastern Blvd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Walgreens 02446
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/14/2007
Address :
6 S Marlyn Ave,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Walgreens 19115
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/13/1997
Address :
140 Back River Neck Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Weis Markets 86
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 7/20/2016
Address :
165 Orville Rd,
Essex, MD 21221.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Essex, Maryland
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Essex, 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 Essex, 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 Essex, 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 Essex, 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.