Moms-to-be, new moms who are nursing, and children up to age 5 may be eligible for food vouchers through a program known as WIC. It stands for Women, Infants and Children.
WIC Maryland
According to the Maryland Department of Health, over half of the infants born in the United States are on WIC.
Maryland WIC focuses on better nutrition and a brighter future by providing information about eating a healthy diet, food vouchers and breastfeeding support. The program also connects women and children to other services.
WIC cards can be used to buy groceries like fresh fruits, vegetables, baby food, milk, eggs, beans, cheese and more.
Who Is Eligible For WIC In Maryland?
To apply for WIC you’ll need to meet qualification guidelines and schedule an appointment with your local WIC agency.
You can apply for Maryland WIC if you:
- Live in Maryland
- You are:
- Pregnant
- New mom (up to six months after delivery)
- Breastfeeding (up to one year after delivery)
- Infant
- Child under five
- Meet income guidelines
- Have a nutritional need
If you meet these qualifications, you can get WIC benefits regardless of your employment or personal situation. You can qualify even if you’re employed, unemployed, married, single, own a home or live with friends.
Moms, dads, grandparents and guardians can apply for benefits for children under age five.
Maryland WIC Application
To get started with the Maryland WIC application, you’ll need to set up an appointment with your local WIC agency.
You’ll need to bring proof of household income, proof of identity, proof of your address and possibly proof of pregnancy, immunization records for your child or a referral.
You can call 1-800-242-4942 for Maryland WIC, go to a local WIC office, or email MDH.WIC@Maryland.gov
211 is also available to connect you to your local Maryland WIC office. Dial 211 any time of day or night.
WIC App
There is also a free app available to connect you to WIC benefits in Maryland. You can view upcoming appointments, food benefits, scan UPCs while shopping to see if the product is WIC approved, and find WIC store locations and WIC clinics throughout Maryland. Download Maryland WIC for Apple or Android.
