What is WIC?
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) is a Supplemental Nutrition program for:
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Babies
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Children under 5
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Pregnant Women
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New Mothers
WIC provides:
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Nutrition education/information
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Access to nutrition experts
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Breastfeeding support/information
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Access to IBCLCs and lactation experts
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Referrals to healthcare & community resources
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Special food packages/benefits using the WIC Card
WIC is considered to be one of the most successful and effective federally-funded nutrition programs in the United States. The WIC Program is cost effective and improves a broad range of health outcomes.
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Improved birth outcomes and savings in health care costs
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Improved diet and diet-related outcomes
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Improved infant feeding practices
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Improved rates of immunizations for children
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Improved cognitive development
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Improved preconceptional nutritional status
Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of frequently asked questions about the WIC program. Please call (209) 383-4859 for additional questions.
Q: What do I need to bring into my appointments?
A: For all appointments you need to bring your WIC Card and/or picture ID. If you come for an enrollment or to re-assess eligibility for WIC, we need the following:
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Infant/child/mother who is in the program present.
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Proof of address (any mail/bill with your name on it, needs to be current address, PO Box not accepted)
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Proof of income (pay stub, unemployment letter of benefits)
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Medi-Cal card and/or immunization record, Driver's license, ID for individual being enrolled in program.
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Q: Do I need to bring my child to every appointment?
A: Your child needs to come with you for the enrollment, recertification and when we need to measure their height and weight. For group classes, children do not have to be present but you’re welcome to bring them.
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Q: What do I do if I can’t remember when my appointment is?
A: You can find out your appt date either by calling us at 209-383-4859 or by looking on your CA WIC App. After logging in, click on ‘Appointments’ in the lower left section of the home screen. If you do not have the CA WIC App, you can download it by searching for “CA WIC App” in either the Apple store for iPhones or Google Play Store for android phones. You will need your WIC Card to create your account on the app. For help downloading/navigating the app, click here.
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Q: I missed my appointment. Can I reschedule?
A: Yes, you can reschedule your appointment by calling (209) 383-4859. You can also walk-in, but we encourage you to call first to make sure we are open, as sometimes we may be closed for trainings and/or meetings.
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Q: What should I do if I cannot come to my appointment?
A: Please call us at 209-383-4859 to change your appointment. You can also add an alternate to your file. Your alternate can do most of your appointments for you.​
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Q: What happens during a WIC appointment?
A: Depending on the appointment type you will either see a counselor (registered dietitian, degreed nutritionist or nutrition assistant) who will suggest healthy eating choices and answer any concerns you may have, or you will attend a class.
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Q: How long do WIC appointments take?
A: Enrollments for new participants usually take about 1 hour. Classes and other paperwork appointments about 30 minutes. Having all required documentation will make your appointment go faster.
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Q: Do I still show up for my appointment even if I don’t have my blood test done yet?
A: Yes, please show up for your appointment. You can bring the referral at the next appointment.
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Q: I lost my WIC Card. Can I get a replacement?
A: If you lose your WIC card, give us a call and you can pick a new one up or we can mail a new card to you.
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Q: What if I change my address or phone number?
A: If you move within the county, please call us with your new address. If you move to a different county, please check your CA WIC App to find a WIC office near you. When you call the new office, tell them you would like to transfer from Merced County. The new office will be able to transfer your file to their county. If you change your phone number, please call us at (209) 383-4859 to update your information.​
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Q: How long can I be on WIC?
A: As long as you or your family member meets the category guidelines, you can be on WIC:
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Category: Pregnant woman, Postpartum woman until 6-12 month postpartum, Infants and children until the age of 5
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Income: Household income must fall within WIC guidelines (please post a link to the guidelines on the CDPH homepage)
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Residency: Must be a resident of California