With over 50 years of experience working in low-income communities, we know now, more than ever, our work is critical to stabilizing the hundreds of thousands of lives we touch every year.
As we settle into our new normal, we know how challenging this time can be for our clients. Notably for our WIC clients seeking out already limited options in now bare grocery stores. In the midst of the COVID-19 public health emergency, we’ve witnessed reports of shortages for key WIC products – including infant formula
This is especially concerning when roughly half of all infants born in the United States access WIC services. WIC participants are our neighbors, our friends, and our community. In this unsettled time, it is critical we support each other to ensure everyone remains healthy and has access to the food they need to weather this crisis.
Please know CEDA is here for you and our WIC staff are ready to support you!
IMPORTANT UPDATES TO ILLINOIS WIC SERVICES
Illinois WIC has received waivers from USDA so the entire WIC appointment can be done over the telephone. There is no need to bring your child or enter a clinic during this time of stay at home orders.
Please call your WIC clinic for information. LOCATIONS HERE! Following your telephone appointment, we will arrange a time for you to come to the office and the WIC paper vouchers will be delivered to you curbside.
WIC shoppers can redeem benefits for specific nutritious foods at retail grocery stores with paper vouchers. Due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, many states have expanded the brands and package sizes that can be redeemed – especially milk, whole grains, and eggs. WIC shoppers should look at their state agency websites or contact their local clinic before heading to the grocery store to confirm changes to the food package.
We must all play our part to avoid hoarding key products – like infant formula – to ensure that all shoppers can purchase the products they need.
The National WIC Association is working with retailers, food manufacturers, and other stakeholders to streamline the WIC shopping experience throughout this public health emergency. Retailers are constantly adapting their practices to ensure a safe shopping experience for all, and NWA continues to urge USDA to embrace innovative retail strategies such as curbside pickup and self-checkout that will ensure the safety of all shoppers, including WIC participants.
If you, or someone you love needs WIC support, please contact your local office.
CLICK HERE FOR TO FIND YOUR LOCAL OFFICE.