FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Allison Hatchett
(334) 206-5673
CONTACT: Mandy J. Darlington
(334) 206-5673
Alabama’s income guidelines for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (better known as WIC) have increased and additional people may qualify. If you are a woman who is pregnant, has had a baby within the past six months, or are currently breastfeeding; or you are the parent or guardian of a child up to age five, you are encouraged to contact your local county health department or WIC agency to apply. During COVID-19, there are options to apply remotely to support social distancing.
WIC participants may receive food benefits for each qualifying family member. Participants also receive free nutrition education, breastfeeding support and healthcare referrals. Alabama’s WIC program now provides electronic food benefits, making the shopping experience much easier.
Under the 2021 federal poverty guidelines, more families may be eligible for the program. WIC is open to participants with incomes up to 185 percent of the federal poverty level. Check the table below to see whether your family qualifies:
2 | $32,227 | $620
3 | $40,626 | $782
4 | $49,025 | $943
5 | $57,424 | $1,105
6 | $65,823 | $1,266
*Each unborn infant counts as one in the family size.
*For additional family sizes, please visit alabamapublichealth.gov/wic.
WIC participants must have both a limited income and a nutritional need. Families who receive Medicaid, SNAP or TANF already meet the income qualifications for WIC. Even families who do not qualify for these programs may be eligible for WIC because of its higher income limits. If your family has lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you also may be eligible.
Allison Hatchett, Alabama WIC director said, “WIC encourages families to be healthy by providing nutritious foods that support optimal growth and development. Nutritious foods help pregnant women have healthy babies and help children grow to become healthy adults. This year more than ever, we understand the struggles many families are facing during COVID-19. WIC is here to help Alabama’s women, infants, and children.”
For more information please go to alabamapublichealth.gov/wic or call the statewide toll-free line at 1-888-942-4673.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
County health departments throughout Alabama provide a wide range of confidential and professional services. Contact your local county health department for additional information.
Mission: To promote, protect, and improve Alabama’s health
Vision: Healthy People. Healthy Communities. Healthy Alabama.