WIC Program - Women, Infants, Children

WIC stands for Women, Infants and Children. WIC is a special supplemental food program that provides nutritious foods, milk, juice, formula and other items to low income pregnant or breastfeeding women, infants and children up to age five.

WIC has been shown to improve the health of pregnant women, new mothers and their infants and children. The foods provided through WIC are a good source of essential nutrients that are often missing from the diets of women and young children. WIC participants have longer healthier pregnancies and fewer premature births.

What's New with WIC

The WIC Program is providing a new assortment of foods, enhanced breastfeeding support efforts and participant centered nutrition education.

Do I qualify for WIC?

You can receive WIC benefits if you meet all four of these requirements:

  1. You must be
    • A pregnant woman of any age;
    • An infant or child up to five years of age;
    • A mother of a baby that is up to six months of age; OR
    • A breastfeeding mother of a baby that is up to 12 months of age.
  2. You must be a resident of New York State, but you do not need to be a U.S. citizen.
  3. You must meet the income eligibility guidelines OR be receiving benefits from Food Stamps, Medicaid or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
  4. Your medical or nutritional needs must be assessed by a WIC health care professional to determine which benefits are available to you.

How do I apply for WIC benefits?

Call your local agency to make an appointment.

Information for Health Care Providers

Information for Vendors

  • For questions about WIC vendors or to apply to be a WIC-approved vendor, contact your local Vendor Management Agency (PDF, 22KB. 1pg.)
  • More information will become abailable in the future.

Helpful Nutrition Information

  • How Much Juice is Too Much?
  • Shop Smart! Get the Most Nutritious Vegetables and Fruits for Your $$$

More New York State Nutrition Programs

Other Nutrition-Related Resources