Are you a pregnant woman, new mother, or caregiver of a young child in Michigan? You might be eligible for the Michigan Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, a helpful resource providing nutritional support to families just like yours. WIC is more than just food; it’s a comprehensive program designed to ensure the health and well-being of moms, babies, and young children up to age 5.
What is the Michigan WIC Program?
WIC is a federally funded program dedicated to safeguarding the health of nutritionally at-risk pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, postpartum women, infants, and children up to five years old. The program offers a powerful combination of services, including:
- Nutrition Education: Learn valuable information about healthy eating for you and your family.
- Supplemental Foods: Receive assistance purchasing nutritious foods specifically chosen to meet the dietary needs of women and young children.
- Breastfeeding Support and Promotion: Get expert guidance and encouragement to successfully breastfeed your baby.
- Referrals to Healthcare: Connect with other essential health and social services in your community.
WIC focuses on providing foods rich in key nutrients like calcium, iron, folic acid, vitamins A & C, and fiber, all crucial for growth and development. Participants receive a WIC Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to conveniently purchase approved food items at authorized grocery stores and pharmacies throughout Michigan.
WIC Food Benefits: Nourishing Families in Michigan
The Michigan Wic Food Guide is designed to provide nutritious foods that support the health of both mothers and growing children. These benefits are delivered through the WIC EBT card, allowing families to choose from a range of healthy options at participating retailers. While a specific detailed “food guide” document may vary slightly and be program-specific, the core principle is providing foods rich in essential nutrients.
These foods typically include:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh, frozen, and canned options to ensure vitamin and mineral intake.
- Whole Grains: Bread, rice, and tortillas to provide fiber and energy.
- Dairy: Milk, cheese, and yogurt for calcium and vitamin D.
- Protein Sources: Eggs, beans, peanut butter, and tofu.
- Infant Formula and Baby Food: For infants who are not exclusively breastfed.
For the most up-to-date and detailed information on the specific foods covered by the Michigan WIC food guide, it’s best to contact your local WIC agency. They can provide you with the most current food lists and answer any questions you have about using your WIC benefits.
Are You Eligible for Michigan WIC?
WIC eligibility is based on income and nutritional need. In Michigan, a family of four may earn up to $57,720 per year and still qualify for WIC. To see if you meet the income requirements, you can read the WIC income guidelines for a detailed breakdown or call 989-758-3733 to discuss your situation with a WIC representative.
Nutritional risk is also assessed during your WIC appointment. This assessment helps ensure that WIC services are directed to those who can benefit most from the program’s nutritional support.
Breastfeeding Support is Here for You
Michigan WIC is a strong advocate for breastfeeding and offers comprehensive support to mothers who choose to breastfeed. Understanding that breastfeeding questions can arise at any time, WIC provides after-hours support. Breastfeeding moms can call or text the helpline at 989-280-9216 between 6 pm and 8 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays to speak with a peer counselor. Even outside of these hours, you can text, and your message will be returned within 24 hours.
Find Your Local WIC Clinic
Ready to take the next step? The main WIC clinic in Saginaw County is conveniently located at:
Saginaw County Health Department
1600 North Michigan Avenue
Saginaw, MI 48602
Room 502
Phone: 989-758-3733
Fax: 989-758-3700
Clinic Hours:
Monday through Friday
8:00 am – 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Call us at 989-758-3733 to schedule your appointment today! Discover how Michigan WIC can support you and your family on the path to better nutrition and health.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For detailed information regarding the USDA non-discrimination policy, please refer to the original article’s “USDA Non-Discrimination Statement” section.*
