Over 130,000 women, infants, and children receive WIC assistance every month in Maryland.http://fha.maryland.gov/wic/ This assistance comes in the form of food vouchers, nutritional education, breastfeeding support and health referrals. WIC is a federally funded program that is managed by the individual states, including Maryland. If you are a resident of Maryland and you need assistance providing sufficient nutrition for your unborn children or children under 5, see if you meet the WIC qualification requirements and do not delay in applying for assistance.

In Maryland, you must residency, income and situational requirements to participate and receive assistance from WIC.

The qualifications are:

1. Live in Maryland
2. Be in need nutritionally
3. Be pregnant, a new mother, a baby, or be under 5
4. Have a gross household income less than:
   1. Family with 1 member: $20,036 annually, $1,670 monthly and $386 weekly
   2. Family with 2 members: $26,955 annually, $2,247 monthly and $519 weekly
   3. Family with 3 members: $33,874 annually, $2,823 monthly and $652 weekly
   4. Family with 4 members: $40,793 annually, $3,400 monthly and $785 weekly

If you currently participate in the Food Supplement Program, the [[Maryland Children’s Health program]], the Temporary Cash Assistance program or receive medical assistance you do not need to meet income requirements for WIC participation. http://www.state.nj.us/health/fhs/wic/proginfo.shtml#income

Visit your local http://fha.maryland.gov/wic/wic_apply.cfmMaryland health department if you believe you meet the eligibility requirements for WIC assistance in Maryland.

You will need to take the following items for the health department to process your WIC claim:

1. Proof of Address
2. Proof of Pregnancy if you are pregnant
3. All persons and children who are applying for WIC benefitshttp://fha.maryland.gov/wic/wic_apply.cfm

Your WIC application process will consist of filling out an application with a WIC representative and having your measurements taken. You will also meet with a nutritionist who will review your current nutritional situation and make suggested changes. Before you leave, you will be able to get your first WIC vouchers and any supplies for which you are eligible.

WIC offers the following benefits:

1. Education in Nutrition
2. Support for Breastfeeding mothers including breast pumps
3. Free approved healthy foods:
   1. Baby Formula
   2. Cereal
   3. Peas
   4. Dried beans
   5. Cheese
   6. Peanut Butter
   7. Fruit or Vegetable Juice (100%)
4. Referrals for other social serviceshttp://fha.maryland.gov/wic/wic_benefits.cfm

Be sure to check for nutrition classes, exercise classes and any other classes offered by your local Maryland health department to make sure you get the full benefit of WIC participation.