How WIC Helps
Why Families Choose California WIC
We know how important it is for you to give your family a healthy, happy start. That is where WIC comes in. We are here to provide support every step of the way, whether you are pregnant, caring for a new baby, or raising young children. Learn more about how WIC can help you and your family.
Support for families
California WIC is the largest WIC program in the nation, offering families access to healthy food, expert advice, and resources.
Support during and after pregnancy
WIC offers tailored nutrition and care to pregnant people, breastfeeding and chest feeding parents, and those who have experienced a recent pregnancy loss. WIC provides resources and support to promote well-being and healthy future pregnancies. Families benefit from nutrition education and regular health appointments for each stage of pregnancy and beyond.
Healthy babies and children
Every month, families receive healthy food from WIC, helping them grow strong and ready for school and beyond. WIC has led to healthier infants, better nutrition for toddlers, and higher academic achievement in school-age children.
Flexible support services
WIC makes it easy for families to get services through video appointments and online nutrition classes. Families can also use the California WIC app to manage their food benefits. On the app, they can see the foods they can buy with their WIC Card, find WIC-approved stores, and check their WIC appointments.
Build healthy habits
WIC supports families in developing healthy habits that last. WIC can help you make healthy meals and physical activity a regular part of everyday life.
Talk to nutrition and health experts
WIC families can talk to trained nutrition assistants, lactation consultants, peer counselors, and Registered Dietitians at no cost. These professionals offer advice to help families make the best food choices.
Trusted health advice
With years of experience, California WIC offers reliable, evidence-based advice to help families make informed health and nutrition choices.
Connect with community
WIC creates a supportive space for families, providing a space for shared experiences. Many of our WIC offices host events and group sessions so parents and caregivers can meet and connect.
Explore WIC Services
WIC has helped families like yours with healthy food, nutrition tips, and expert guidance on breastfeeding and chestfeeding. Explore what WIC has to offer.
Healthy food benefits
Eating well can make a big difference for your family’s health. With WIC, you will receive benefits on a WIC Card to help you buy nutritious foods like:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains and cereal
- Milk, soy milk, eggs, and cheese
- Tofu
- Baby food
- Infant formula
- Juice, peanut butter, and more
These foods are chosen to support growth and development, helping you and your little ones stay strong and healthy.
Nutrition and health advice
WIC offers practical nutrition tips and healthy living advice. At your WIC appointments, you can meet with a WIC Nutrition Assistant or a Registered Dietitian who can assist you with the following topics:
- Healthy foods during and after pregnancy
- Advice on newborn sleep, crying, and feeding cues
- Healthy child development information
- Meals and snack ideas for toddlers and children
- Tips for adding more fruits and veggies to your meals
- Meal planning on a budget
Infant feeding support
If you are thinking about breastfeeding, formula feeding, or have questions along the way, WIC has specialists ready to guide you. We provide:
- Personalized breastfeeding and chestfeeding advice
- Support tailored to your goals and schedule
- Infant formula feeding guidance
Referrals to health services
At WIC, we believe in supporting the whole family. Along with food and nutrition, we can help connect you with services like:
- Health care providers
- Dental care
- Immunizations
- Food assistance
- Mental health
- Other community and social services
See if You Qualify for WIC
If you are pregnant, have recently had a baby, or care for a child under age 5, or have experienced a recent pregnancy loss, you may qualify for WIC if you have a low-to-medium income or receive Medi-Cal, CalWORKs, or CalFresh benefits.
WIC supports families of all backgrounds. To learn more about who can qualify, visit the resource buttons below.
WIC Stories
Real Families, Real Support
Watch how the WIC program makes a difference with every family we support.
Find Your Local WIC Office
WIC offices are located throughout California, and remote appointments make it even easier to get started.
Page Last Updated: December 31, 2024