WIC, which stands for Women, Infants, and Children, is a federal program designed to provide food to low income pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women, infants and children until the age of five. The program provides nutrition education, supplemental foods, breastfeeding promotion and support, and referrals for health/dental care.

Evidence suggests that women who participate in WIC have improved pregnancy outcomes, resulting in healthier babies and reduced newborn medical costs. WIC also dramatically lowers infant mortality, and improves children’s diets. S

ince the program began in 1974, WIC has earned the reputation of being one of the most successful Federally-funded nutrition programs in the United States. Some changes to the food package went into effect Oct. 1, 2012. The contract formula for the N.C. WIC Program changed from Mead Johnson (Enfamil) to Gerber Good Start brand.If your baby receives a special formula that is prescribed by their doctor, no change will be made. The standard contract formulas provided by WIC are: Gerber Goodstart Gentle, Soy, Protect, and Soothe.

The N.C. WIC Program also targets specific behaviors such as: breastfeed your baby, increase fiber, lower the fat, drink lowfat milk (1 percent or skim), eat more fruit/vegetables,and whole grains.

If you reside in Sampson County, to apply for WIC please contact The Sampson County Health Department between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 pm. Monday through Friday at 592-1131. To apply for WIC , the applicant must meet all of the eligibility requirements, which includes: Categorical, Residential, Income, and Nutrition Risk.