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 Westlake, Ohio families who qualify.
Eligibility for WIC
To be eligible for WIC in Westlake, Ohio, 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 Westlake, Ohio, 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 Westlake, Ohio, 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 Westlake, Ohio:
Stores Accept WIC Card in Westlake, Ohio
7-eleven 36739A
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/7/2016
Address :
25466 Detroit Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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ALDI 63070 63070
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 10/24/2004
Address :
30700 Detroit Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Circle K 5243
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 8/2/2007
Address :
27190 Center Ridge Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Crocker 362
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 7/14/2020
Address :
1145 Crocker Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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CVS 4304
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 1/15/2005
Address :
30791 Detroit Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Deli 4 Less
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/22/2010
Address :
24505 Center Ridge Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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DISCOUNT DRUG MART 10
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 8/27/1980
Address :
27300 Detroit Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Fresh Thyme Farmers Market 311WKE
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 7/30/2018
Address :
30016 Detroit Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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GetGo 3316
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 11/14/2013
Address :
25476 Center Ridge Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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GIANT EAGLE #1216 WESTLAKE 1216
Store Details :
- Type: Super Store
- Authorization Date: 7/30/1975
Address :
30275 Detroit Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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I Mart Stores Llc OH0052
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/5/2019
Address :
29775 Clemens Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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I Mart Stores Usa OH0100
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 6/7/2019
Address :
30812 Detroit Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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MARC'S 37
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 2/16/1994
Address :
26400 Detroit Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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North Union Farmers Market At Crocker Park
Store Details :
- Type: Farmer's Market
- Authorization Date: 3/17/2017
Address :
287 Crocker Park Blvd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Rimi's
Store Details :
- Type: Medium Grocery Store
- Authorization Date: 1/25/2012
Address :
26531 Center Ridge Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Rite Aid 3056
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/24/2005
Address :
23709 Center Ridge Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Rite Aid 4975
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 10/24/2005
Address :
27175 Center Ridge Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Sam's Convenient
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 10/13/2016
Address :
27112 Detroit Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Speedway 5404
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 1/7/2013
Address :
30805 Detroit Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Speedway 7690
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/4/2013
Address :
2726 Dover Center Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Trader Joe's 677
Store Details :
- Type: Supermarket
- Authorization Date: 3/9/2005
Address :
175 Market St,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Walgreens 05473
Store Details :
- Type: Combination Grocery/Other
- Authorization Date: 2/21/2008
Address :
25524 Center Ridge Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Westlake Food Mart
Store Details :
- Type: Convenience Store
- Authorization Date: 9/21/2021
Address :
29233 Center Ridge Rd,
Westlake, OH 44145.
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Tips for shopping at a WIC store in Westlake, Ohio
Here are some tips for shopping at a WIC store in Westlake, Ohio:
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 Ohio
| 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 Westlake, Ohio?
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 Westlake, Ohio?
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 Westlake, Ohio.
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.