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 Ithaca, New York families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Ithaca, New York, 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 Ithaca, New York, 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 Ithaca, New York, 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 Ithaca, New York:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Ithaca, New York
7 Eleven Store #40191 40191
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/14/2020
Address :
210 S Cayuga St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
7 Eleven Store 35255a
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/8/2015
Address :
409 College Ave,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
ALDI, INC. 11
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 10/16/1997
Address :
505 3rd St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Anabel's Grocery
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 11/2/2021
Address :
127 Anabel Taylor Hall,
Ithaca, NY 14853.
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APLUS 40191H
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/16/2020
Address :
210 S Cayuga St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Big Lots 830
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/1/2020
Address :
2309 N Triphammer Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
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BJ's Wholesale Club 352
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/10/2012
Address :
40 Graham Rd W,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
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Byrne Dairy Ithaca Rt13 131
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/7/2021
Address :
323 Elmira Road,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
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Chucks Gas Mart In.
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/23/2009
Address :
540 W State St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
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CVS PHARMACY 502
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/20/2000
Address :
625 W Clinton St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
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Dandy Mini Mart 77
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 3/25/2013
Address :
2102 Mecklenburg Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
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Dandy Mini Mart 82
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/22/2018
Address :
805 W Buffalo St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
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Dandy Mini Mart Inc 83
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/12/2020
Address :
825 Danby Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Dollar General 17711
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/15/2017
Address :
2124 Mecklenburg Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
DOLLAR TREE 959
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/20/2008
Address :
131 Fairgrounds Memorial Pkwy,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
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DOLLARTREE 8262
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/16/2019
Address :
2301 N Triphammer Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
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EDDYDALE FARM MARKET
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 5/16/1979
Address :
827 Elmira Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Empire Commons Market Corp
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/6/2020
Address :
124 N Aurora St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
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Fastrac EG LLC 256
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/2/2008
Address :
214 N Meadow St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Greenstar Cooperative Market Inc - Dewitt Mall
Store Details :
- Type: Food Buying Co-op
- Authorization Date: 3/13/2020
Address :
215 N Cayuga St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Greenstar Cooperative Market Inc.
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 8/31/2016
Address :
307 College Ave,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Greenstar Cooperative Market, Inc.
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 3/13/2020
Address :
770 Cascadilla St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Ithaca Farmers Market
Store Details :
- Type: Farmer's Market
- Authorization Date: 8/18/2020
Address :
545 3rd St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Ithaca Halal Meat & Grocery
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 3/15/2019
Address :
110 W Green St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Ithaca Mini Mart, Llc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/27/2021
Address :
124 S Cayuga St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Jason's Grocery and Deli
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/11/2009
Address :
301 College Ave,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Kinney Drugs 100
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/30/2009
Address :
2255 N Triphammer Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Kinney Drugs 80
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 12/7/2016
Address :
513 N Cayuga St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Lee's Ithaca Tofu
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 6/1/2016
Address :
23 Cinema Dr,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Mirabito 57 - Freeville 2
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/28/2021
Address :
1321 Dryden Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Mirabito 87
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 5/14/2014
Address :
1103 Danby Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Nirvana Foods Bazaar
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/7/2020
Address :
528 W Seneca St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
P&C Fresh Market 107
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 7/15/2011
Address :
315 Pine Tree Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Quik Shoppe 111
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/21/2015
Address :
317 3rd St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Ren's Mart Inc - Ren's Mart Asian Groceries
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 3/3/2021
Address :
701 W Buffalo St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Saboor Petroleum Inc
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 4/16/2021
Address :
2311 N Triphammer Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
SHORTSTOP DELI
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/8/1978
Address :
204 W Seneca St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Speedway 7787
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 12/20/2010
Address :
366 Elmira Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
TARGET 1508
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 1/9/2007
Address :
40A Catherwood Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Tompkins County Farmers Market NAFMNP
Store Details :
- Type: Farmer's Market
- Authorization Date: 7/30/2020
Address :
615 Willow Ave,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Tops Markets 522
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 10/4/2000
Address :
2300 N Triphammer Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Tops Markets 525
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 4/30/2002
Address :
710 S Meadow St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
TRADER JOE'S ITHACA 568
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 1/19/2021
Address :
744 S Meadow St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Valero & Sunup Food Store
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/6/2020
Address :
1278 Ny-104B,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Walgreens 18019
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 9/22/1998
Address :
2309 N Triphammer Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Walgreens 19370
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 11/29/2004
Address :
615 S Meadow St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Walgreens 19684
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/8/2010
Address :
330 Pine Tree Rd,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Walmart 5240
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 12/3/2004
Address :
135 Fairgrounds Memorial Pkwy,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Wegmans 71
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 9/9/1997
Address :
500 S Meadow St,
Ithaca, NY 14850.
Get Directions
Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Ithaca, New York
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Ithaca, New York:
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 New York
| 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 Ithaca, New York?
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 Ithaca, New York?
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 Ithaca, New York.
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.