Pregnant
women, new mothers and guardians of children receive
nutrition education and counseling. The main focus of the
nutrition education program is prevention of health
conditions and improvement of health status. Clients learn
about their specific nutritional needs and the nutrients
necessary during important growth periods, including
pregnancy and infancy. Counseling is also targeted toward
identified nutrition problems (i.e. anemia, underweight,
special feeding problems). Education is offered through
one-to-one counseling and in group classes.
Supplemental
Food
WIC
participants receive monthly food checks for specific
foods prescribed to meet their individual needs. WIC
foods are high in protein, iron and vitamins A and C.
Examples of such foods are milk, cheese, eggs, peanut
butter, dried beans, iron fortified cereal, high vitamin C
fruit juice and iron-fortified infant formula. Food checks
are redeemed at contracted local grocery stores and
pharmacies.
Access
to Health Care and other Social Services
The
WIC program refers and coordinates with other services,
such as immunizations and Well Child Clinics, prenatal
programs, and drug and alcohol treatment programs among
others to assist participants in knowing where and how to
obtain health care. Information referrals for other social
services are made routinely.
Breastfeeding
Support
WIC
moms are encouraged to breastfeed. Education and support
with materials such as breast pumps may be provided.
Certified Lactation Educators are available to help with
questions about breastfeeding.
