WIC is funded by an appropriation from Congress to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The USDA allocates monies to the various States and Territories (American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands) Health Departments. Various local WIC agencies receive funds based on the number of WIC participants they serve. WIC is also funded, in part, by private industry. WIC generates revenue through competitive bidding on some of the foods the WIC program provides. This is inclusive of a rebate.

WIC is a Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. It is federally funded by the United States Department of Agriculture.

FAQs - Page 2 of 3 - Dallas WIC: Women, Infants & Children Nutrition Resources

Q: What types of foods may be purchased with the EBT Card?

Only foods which are high in Vitamin A&C, protein, iron and calcium are provided as part of the WIC program. These are the nutrients which are vital to good health and development of pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants, and children. The foods the WIC program provides include eggs, milk, cheese, beans, peanut butter, iron fortified infant and adult cereals, fruit, vegetables and strained baby fruit and vegetables and Vitamin C fortified juices. Breastfeeding women receive additional food benefits which also include tuna and carrots. While it is the hope of the City of Dallas WIC that all of our mothers will choose breastfeeding as the ideal infant feeding choice, iron fortified infant formula is also provided. WIC EBT benefits are issued for very specific foods in specific amounts, to ensure that the best possible nutrition is provided at the lowest possible cost.

Q: What is the connection between the City of Dallas and the WIC Program?

The City of Dallas administers the WIC Program through a grant contract with the Texas Department of State health Services. This WIC/City of Dallas partnership developed when the WIC Program was first initiated in the state of Texas in 1974.

Q: Where is WIC available?

WIC is available in all 50 States and in the United States territories of American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.

Q: How long has WIC been around?

The WIC Program was started as a pilot program in Pineville, Kentucky in 1974 and was adopted as a major, nation-wide program in 1975.

Q: How do I know my baby is getting enough to eat?

Many new moms have this same concern. When you can’t weigh your baby the best way to tell if he is getting enough to eat in the early days is counting bowel movements. A baby that is fed only breast milk should have about 4 poop diapers every 24 hours. Breastfed newborns feed about every one and a half to three hours. Feedings last about 30-40 minutes. When feedings last longer than 40 minutes or occur less than one hour apart, or you have any other reason to be concerned about your baby’s intake, contact your doctor immediately.

Q: I have heard breastfeeding is difficult.

It is not difficult. Breastfeeding is the first thing a mom and baby learn together. Baby is learning to suck, swallow and breathe and mom is learning baby’s needs and personality. Learning something new takes effort and patience. Having support from family and friends is important. If you feel overwhelmed and unsure give us a call here at the Lactation Foundation. Sometimes, all new moms need is a pat on the back and reassurance that things are going well.

Q: Will I need a breast pump and if I do what type?

No, you do not need one. In the early weeks of breastfeeding it is best to latch the baby to the breast as it helps to build a good milk supply and teaches the baby to breastfeed. If a mother has to return to work or school or has to be separated frequently from her baby an electric breast pump makes this easier. If mom is only away occasionally a manual pump works well and is easier to carry. Whatever the situation is, WIC has breast pumps that can meet every mother’s needs. The type of pump will depend on mom’s situation.