June15, 2007

More Idaho families may be eligible for a special nutrition program that can help them save money, eat well and stay healthy. Idaho’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) implements new income guidelines effective July 1 that raise the household income eligibility limits.

At no cost to qualified families, WIC provides nutritious supplemental foods like milk, eggs, cheese, cereal, juice, beans and peanut butter. WIC services also include health screenings, nutrition counseling, breastfeeding information and support, help from Registered Dietitians and referrals to other services that may aid a family in need.

To be eligible for the WIC program, an individual must be a pregnant or breastfeeding woman; a woman who has recently been pregnant; or an infant or child under five years of age.  In addition, the individual must live in Idaho, have a special need that can be helped by WIC foods and nutrition counseling, and have a low-to-moderate income.  To be eligible on the basis of income, an applicant’s gross income (i.e. before taxes are withheld) must fall at or below 185 percent of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines.

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