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 Benton Harbor, Michigan families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Benton Harbor, Michigan, 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 Benton Harbor, Michigan, 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 Benton Harbor, Michigan, 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 Benton Harbor, Michigan:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Benton Harbor, Michigan
A & D Liquor Corner
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/17/2020
Address :
990 Pipestone St,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
ALDI 67005 67005
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 6/28/1994
Address :
1700 Pipestone Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Benton Harbor Farmers Market
Store Details :
- Type: Farmer's Market
- Authorization Date: 5/6/2010
Address :
127 Pipestone,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Big Lots 5256
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 7/7/2014
Address :
1950 Pipestone Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Bj Liquor 1 Stop Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/6/2019
Address :
268 E Empire Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Dollar General 19147
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/7/2017
Address :
1606 M 139,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Dollar General 22349
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 2/18/2021
Address :
3049 Coloma Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
DOLLAR TREE 0729
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/7/2006
Address :
1000 E Napier Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Eagle Party Store
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/21/2009
Address :
2548 Territorial Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Family Dollar 9095
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/12/2012
Address :
481 Pipestone Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Family Dollar Store 2018
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/9/2009
Address :
1240 M 139 Hwy,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Family Dollar Store 6143
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/23/2009
Address :
335 Riverview Dr,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Gordon Food Service Store LLC MP 053
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 7/25/1995
Address :
1350 Mall Dr,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Himmat, Llc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/30/2019
Address :
284 Broadway,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Himmat, Llc Dba Milburg Trading Post
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/31/2017
Address :
4766 Territorial Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Hs Petroleum, Llc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/3/2018
Address :
470 W Main St,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Japleen Petroleum Llc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/10/2019
Address :
143 W Napier Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
K & S Party Store
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/2/2015
Address :
868 N Euclid Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Kartar Foods LLC
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 10/17/2002
Address :
1140 Pipestone Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
L & S Groceries
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/21/2005
Address :
1186 Paw Paw Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
LA PERLA PRODUCE INC
Store Details :
- Type: Large Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 7/31/2006
Address :
1231 Pipestone Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
LAPERLA, INCORPORATED
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/6/1999
Address :
8080 E Napier Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Marathon Plaza
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/9/2014
Address :
1690 M 139,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
May Street Market
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/1/2021
Address :
131 E May St,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Meijer Gas Station 41
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/4/2020
Address :
1920 Pipestone Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Meijer Inc 041
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 6/18/1980
Address :
1920 Pipestone Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Millburg Marathon Value Market 16
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/15/2012
Address :
4781 Territorial Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Ms Petroleum Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/20/2021
Address :
2670 M 139,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Napier Shell 02
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/3/2015
Address :
1959 E Napier Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Phillip 66
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/6/2017
Address :
1117 Pipestone Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Pilot Travel Center 666
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/7/2017
Address :
1860 E Napier Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Pri Mart 5
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/24/2019
Address :
2407 S M 139,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Quality Marathon
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/14/2014
Address :
8151 E Napier Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Quickway
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/4/2010
Address :
105 S Fair Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
R & H BROTHERS LLC
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/12/2003
Address :
1105 Highland Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
RED & WHITE FEED & GROCERY
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/15/2020
Address :
4725 Territorial Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Rite Aid 1481
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/19/2005
Address :
1701 M 139,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Riverside Shell Value Market 17
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/29/2012
Address :
3468 Coloma Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
S & M Gasmart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 2/16/2016
Address :
202 N Fair Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Save A Lot 45026
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 7/25/2014
Address :
1630 M 139,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Sgndj Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/14/2012
Address :
310 E Main St,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Sunny's Spot
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/21/2012
Address :
895 Pipestone St,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Vicky Petroleum LLC
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/10/2019
Address :
2091 Territorial Rd,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Walgreens 10078
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/2/1994
Address :
875 E Napier Ave,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Walmart 2062
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 3/22/2004
Address :
1400 Mall Dr,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Wings & Things
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/9/2012
Address :
790 E Main St,
Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Benton Harbor, Michigan
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Benton Harbor, Michigan:
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 Michigan
| 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 Benton Harbor, Michigan?
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 Benton Harbor, Michigan?
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 Benton Harbor, Michigan.
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.