WIC is a federally funded program administered by the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) through the Oklahoma City-County Health Department (OCCHD) that provides nutrition education and supplemental foods for those who qualify.
The Program’s Purpose
- To provide specific supplemental foods for good health and nutrition during critical times of growth and development. Foods provided by the program supply calcium, protein, iron, fiber, and vitamins A, D, and C.
- To emphasize the relationship between proper nutrition and good health, placing special emphasis on the nutritional needs of pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants and children under five (5) years of age.
- To assist the individual who is at nutritional risk in achieving a positive change in food habits, resulting in improved status and in the prevention of nutrition related problems through optimal use of the supplemental foods and other nutritious foods provided.
Documented Benefits of WIC
Studies show WIC helps:
- Reduce miscarriages and get babies off to a healthier start
- Reduce premature births
- Increase the birth weight of newborns
- Decrease the incidence of iron deficiency anemia in children
- Improve the diets of women who are pregnant or have recently given birth
- Achieve recommended weight gain throughout pregnancy
- Increase early prenatal care
- Improve children’s diet to make them healthier
- WIC participation has also been associated with improved intakes of protein, calories and other nutrients in the diets of pregnant women and children. Improved utilization of immunization services by children has also been found.
Who is eligible for WIC?
- Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have recently given birth
- Infants
- Children up to the age of five
Who may apply for WIC services for an infant or child?
- A parent, guardian or proxy
How can I qualify for WIC benefits?
- Live in the state of Oklahoma
- Have a family income within program limits (if you receive income from a job, you may still qualify)
- You will need to provide proof of identification, income, and address when you come in for your WIC appointment
- You may be eligible for WIC if you receive Medicaid, Food Stamps, or TANF benefits
What does WIC provide?
- Quality nutrition and breastfeeding education and counseling
- Nutritious foods to improve diet and health
- Breast pumps to mothers who qualify
- Referrals to health and social services
How do I apply for WIC benefits?
- Call our WIC appointment line at (405) 425-4384
Locations and Days of Operation
- OCCHD Main – 921 NE 23rd Street (M-F)
- OCCHD Capitol Hill – 210 SW 25th Street (M-F)
- OCCHD East – 6912 E. Reno, Midwest City (M,WTF)
- OCCHD Emerson – 720 N. Dewey (Monday)
- OCCHD West – 4330 NW 10th Street (M-F)
WIC Breastfeeding Promotion and Support
- Oklahoma State Department of Health
- Oklahoma Breastfeeding Hotline: 1-877-271-MILK (6455)
Other Links