W.I.C. Program
Women, Infants and Children
The Community Action Council provides WIC services to eligible residents of Mason and Thurston Counties. We serve low-income, nutritionally at risk pregnant women, post partum mothers and children up to their 5th birthday. Clients must meet income guidelines, a state residency requirement and be individually determined to be at medical or “Nutritional Risk” by a health professional.
What are medical/nutritional risks?
Medically-based risks include conditions such as diabetes, food allergies, anemia, lung and cardiovascular disorders, over or underweight, history of pregnancy complications, history of poor pregnancy outcomes, gastrointestinal disorders and severe dental problems. Nutritional risks include inappropriate dietary patterns, unsafe food handling, inadequate or excessive use of vitamins or other supplements, and restrictive eating patterns. Staff at our Lacey and Shelton WIC clinics screen clients to determine if they are at medical or nutritional risk.
Who is eligible?
WIC Income Guidelines per month:(a pregnant woman counts as 2).
Family of 2 earning up to $2,159
Family of 4 earning up to $3,269
Family of 6 earning up to $4,379
If you are receiving medical coupons or are on Healthy Options you are eligible for WIC regardless of your income level.
WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
The WIC Farmers’ Market Program provides coupons to WIC participants that can be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at participating Farmers’ Markets. The program has two goals: to provide nutritious food to clients, and to promote the use of Farmers’ Markets.
“In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Washington WIC does not discriminate.”
What benefits do
WIC participants receive?
WIC participants receive nutrition education and counseling as well as monthly checks for healthy foods to supplement their diets. WIC foods are typically high in one or more of the following nutrients: protein, calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C and individual food packages can be provided for specialized client needs. In addition to nutrition education and supplemental foods, staff will also provide referrals to other health, welfare and social services when appropriate.
