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The following are frequently asked questions we receive often receive:

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WHO QUALIFIES FOR WIC?

Pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children (under 5 years old) may qualify to participate in the WIC program. Those whose income meets the WIC income guidelines or who participate in the Medicaid, FITAP, or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program SNAP (formerly Food Stamp Program), and who are also at nutrition risk, as defined by WIC regulations, are eligible for WIC benefits. Eligibility determination is completed by the staff at the WIC site.

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WHERE ARE WIC SERVICES PROVIDED?

Applicants may call 1-800-251-BABY to locate WIC clinics in their area. The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Office of Public Health web site at http://www.wic.dhh.louisiana.gov also has a list of WIC clinics.

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WHAT SHOULD A PERSON BRING TO THE FIRST WIC CLINIC VIST?

 The participant (infant, child, or woman) must be present. There are a few exceptions to physical presence. Please ask your local WIC office staff.

 Proof of identity for the participant and for the proxy or parent/caretaker of the infant/child.

 Proof of income or proof of participation in the Medicaid, SNAP or TANF program.

 Proof of a Louisiana address. WIC does not require proof of citizenship or alien status. Participation in the WIC Program will not affect immigration and naturalization.

 If available, medical information from your doctor (height, weight, Hgb, Hct, and immunizations).

 Special medical documentation is needed (starting 10/09) for any special Formula and the Supplemental Food (at age 6 months).

 The WIC-48 Form Medical Documentation Form should be used to prescribe special formula and the supplemental food. Packets of the WIC-48 forms are available from your local WIC Clinic. Please contact the local WIC clinic staff.

 A prescription can be used but must contain all of the required federally mandated information.

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WHAT NUTRITION SERVICES ARE PROVIDED BY WIC?

WIC nutrition services include an assessment, a nutrition care plan, nutrition counseling, educational activities, reassessment, and continued nutrition guidance. Nutritionists, Nurses, Health and Nutrition Educators provide the nutritional healthcare in the WIC Clinic.