WIC program reaching out during pandemic

Montana’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children is providing vital services for pregnant women, new mothers and others who have temporarily lost their jobs or earnings as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, if they meet program eligibility guidelines.

According to a press release, program participants receive an electronic benefit transfer card that they can use to buy cereal, juice, milk, cheese, eggs, peanut butter, yogurt, fruits and vegetables, baby food, formula and more. In addition to providing benefits for healthy foods, the program provides breastfeeding support, nutrition information and referrals to healthcare and other community resources.

According to the press release, although Woman, Infants and Children (WIC) offices are currently closed for in-person appointments, families in need of services can call their local WIC office. Staff will then “quickly screen for eligibility and if eligible, schedule a phone appointment to complete certification of WIC benefits.” The program is available to pregnant women, new moms for up to six months after delivery, breastfeeding moms for up to one year after delivery and infants and children under the age of 5.

Income eligibility guidelines through June 30, 2020, are as follows: $23,107 for a one-person household, $31,284 for two-person households, $39,461 for three-person households, $47,638 for four-person households and $55,815 for five-person households.

In addition to enrolling new participants, Flathead County WIC staff are helping applicants and clients with a range of questions on nutrition and health. A location consultant and a breastfeeding peer counselor are reaching out to pregnant and breastfeeding moms.

The Flathead City-County Health Department’s WIC program can be reached at 406-751-8170 or email wicappt@flathead.mt.gov.