The Federal Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) provides nutritious foods to pregnant, post partum and breast feeding women and children up to age 5. Eligibility is based on income and a family of 4 may earn up to $33,485 annually and receive WIC benefits. Food checks are redeemed at the local grocery store for milk, cheese, eggs, peanut butter, juice and cereal. Infants may receive formula, juice and cereal. Along with WIC foods, families receive nutrition education and referrals to other resources within the community.

WIC encourages breast feeding and two WIC employees are Certified Lactation Counselors who provide instruction and follow-up to 280 WIC participants each month. Additional WIC foods (tuna fish, carrots and beans) are provided for breast feeding mothers. Each month 63% of all post partum women receiving WIC benefits are breast feeding.

WIC participates in the New York State Farmer’s Market program each summer. WIC participants receive coupons to be cashed at local farmer’s markets for nutritious fruits and vegetables. Nutrition information is provided at the WIC office on the selection and preparation of fresh produce.

WIC services are available at nine locations throughout Chenango County. Norwich is the largest location, providing evening clinics every Thursday night. Each month the WIC employees travel to Greene, New Berlin, Afton, Sherburne, South Otselic, Bainbridge, McDonough and Oxford in order to reach all eligible families within the county. WIC participates in all local health fairs and community events in order to increase interest and participation in the WIC program.

For more information, contact us via phone at (607) 334-7114 or click here to send email.