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 Takoma Park, Maryland families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Takoma Park, 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 Takoma Park, 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 Takoma Park, 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 Takoma Park, Maryland:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Takoma Park, Maryland
7-eleven 28808A
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/16/2013
Address :
1301 University Blvd E,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
7-eleven 38133a
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/3/2019
Address :
6900 New Hampshire Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
7-Eleven Inc F 11666C
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/22/2012
Address :
900 Merrimac Dr,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
A Plus Sunoco 1
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/22/2016
Address :
6907 New Hampshire Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Aldi 29
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 5/20/1998
Address :
7609 New Hampshire Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Arada International Market
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/24/2020
Address :
6844 New Hampshire Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Best Discount Tobacco And Grocery
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/31/2021
Address :
6533 New Hampshire Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
CARIBBEAN MARKET
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 5/4/2005
Address :
7505 New Hampshire Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Crossroads Farmers Market
Store Details :
- Type: Farmer's Market
- Authorization Date: 5/28/2013
Address :
Anne St,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Dire Convenience Store Inc 1
Store Details :
- Type: Small Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 10/22/2015
Address :
6480 New Hampshire Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
El-Shahid Halal Meat and Grocery
Store Details :
- Type: Large Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 8/1/2008
Address :
1335 University Blvd E,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
International Meat Market
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 10/30/2019
Address :
1355 Holton Ln,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Lidl 8030
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 11/13/2020
Address :
6881 New Hampshire Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Megamart Supermarket
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 12/1/2016
Address :
1101 University Blvd E,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Naana International Foods Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 2/15/2011
Address :
6339 New Hampshire Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
PARK RITCHIES MARKET
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/28/1993
Address :
7600 Maple Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Red Apple Farmers Market
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 4/6/2021
Address :
7645 New Hampshire Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Shger Market
Store Details :
- Type: Meat/Poultry Specialty
- Authorization Date: 2/4/2010
Address :
912 E West Hwy,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Takoma Park Farmers Market Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Farmer's Market
- Authorization Date: 4/3/2007
Address :
6909 Laurel Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Takoma Park Food Co-Op
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/29/1981
Address :
201 Ethan Allen Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Takoma Park Grocery Store
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 2/6/2020
Address :
7605 Maple Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Universal Supermarket Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Large Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 2/8/2005
Address :
8639 Flower Ave,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Walgreens 11140
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 7/18/2011
Address :
1329 University Blvd E,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
World Fashion International African Food 1
Store Details :
- Type: Small Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 3/11/2021
Address :
1335 Holton Ln,
Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Takoma Park, Maryland
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Takoma Park, 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 Takoma Park, 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 Takoma Park, 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 Takoma Park, 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.