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 Petoskey, Michigan families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Petoskey, 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 Petoskey, 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 Petoskey, 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 Petoskey, Michigan:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Petoskey, Michigan
Aldi 14
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 2/3/2015
Address :
2130 Anderson Rd,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Big Lots 4732
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/7/2021
Address :
1401 Spring St.,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
BILL AND CAROL'S INC
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/7/2017
Address :
523 Charlevoix Ave,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Bills Farm Market
Store Details :
- Type: Fruits/Veg Specialty
- Authorization Date: 7/8/2009
Address :
4450 E Mitchell Rd,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
D&W 1525
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 5/20/1999
Address :
1163 N US Highway 31,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Dollar General 9006
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/15/2004
Address :
1169 N US Highway 31,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Dollar Tree 954
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 8/13/2010
Address :
910 Spring St,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Downtown Petoskey Farmers Market
Store Details :
- Type: Farmer's Market
- Authorization Date: 6/12/2018
Address :
401 E Mitchell St,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Gordon Food Service Store LLC MP 085
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 8/24/2000
Address :
1010 Spring St,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Louies Fresh Market Petoskey 21
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 7/10/2007
Address :
2394 E Mitchell Rd,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Meijer 257
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 3/25/2010
Address :
1201 Lears Rd,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Meijer Gas Station 257
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/6/2020
Address :
2141 S US Hwy 131,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Next Door Food Strore 5027
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/6/2007
Address :
804 Spring St,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Olesons Food Store 609
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 8/19/1975
Address :
2000 N US Highway 31,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Plath's Meats Inc 2
Store Details :
- Type: Meat/Poultry Specialty
- Authorization Date: 6/25/2012
Address :
2200 E Mitchell Rd,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Rite Aid 01691
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 2/2/2010
Address :
1133 N US Highway 31,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Rite Aid 4410
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/31/2005
Address :
630 W Mitchell St,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
SCHAFER THRIFT 4798
Store Details :
- Type: Bakery Specialty
- Authorization Date: 2/4/1980
Address :
1842 N US Highway 31,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Shell Petoskey North 17
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/5/2010
Address :
1320 N US Highway 31,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
The Party Shoppe On Pickerel Lake
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/23/2012
Address :
1154 N Ellsworth Rd,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Tom And Dick's
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/6/2017
Address :
921 Emmet St,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Walgreens 05481
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/12/2006
Address :
710 Spring St,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Walgreens 12534
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 3/7/2009
Address :
1301 N US Highway 31,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Walmart Supercenter 2417
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 4/16/2002
Address :
1850 Anderson Rd,
Petoskey, MI 49770.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Petoskey, Michigan
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Petoskey, 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 Petoskey, 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 Petoskey, 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 Petoskey, 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.