During the WIC visit, participants meet with a WIC nutritionist either as an individual or in a group setting. To qualify to receive WIC benefits, a participant will receive an individualized nutrition assessment, which may include a review of growth charts and blood iron levels.The Nutritionist also conducts a dietary assessment and reviews immunization records of the infants and children. The participant is encouraged to discuss with the Nutritionist the topics that may affect the health of her/his family and together with the Nutritionist, set up goal(s) that will promote a healthy lifestyle. When necessary, the nutritionist can make helpful referrals to other healthcare and community programs.
WIC supplements the diet of the families by providing specific food packages for the different categories of women, infants and children. The foods may include:
- Cow's Milk, soy milk, cheese, yogurt and tofu
- Whole grains: rice, bread, tortillas, pasta and adult cereal
- Beans, peanut butter and eggs
- Canned fish for exclusively breastfeeding and pregnant women carrying more than one fetus
- Fresh, frozen or canned fruits and vegetables
- Infant formula (including specialized formula for certain medical issues), infant cereal and baby foods (fruits, vegetables and cereal)
