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Food Stamps and Other Food Assistance

Introduction

WIC is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. The Arkansas WIC Program is managed by the Arkansas Department of Health.

WIC provides:
• supplemental foods high in nutrients during a time of critical growth and development
• nutrition education improving dietary habits and health and highlighting the links between nutrition and health
• information and support for breastfeeding referrals for other health services

Eligibility

Who is Eligible?

Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, postpartum women, infants, and children under the age of five years are eligible if they are Arkansas residents and meet the following guidelines in the following tabs. 

Income Guidelines

WIC guidelines are set at 185% of poverty and change each year. When you apply, you will have to give proof of your income. Proof can include a current check stubs, W-2 forms, a current income tax return, and proof of eligibility for Medicaid (including ARKids), Transitional Employment Assistance (TEA), or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). You can see more information about income guidelines at https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/wic. 

Nutritional Risk Guidelines

If you apply, you must be seen by a health professional. This can be a doctor, nurse, or nutritionist. They will determine if you have nutritional risk (meaning you have a medical or dietary condition). This can mean low blood levels (like anemia), being overweight, being under­weight, or simply having a poor diet.

Food Available Through WIC

  • iron-fortified infant formula
  • infant cereal
  • infant baby food fruits and vegetables
  • iron-fortified adult cereal
  • milk
  • cheese
  • eggs
  • whole grains
  • dried or canned beans
  • fruits and vegetables
  • juice
  • peanut butter
  • canned fist
  • if prescribed for a specific medical condition:
    • special infant formula
    • soy-based drink

Applying

You can apply for WIC in any Arkansas county. Call your local health unit or call the state office at (501) 661-2473 or 1-800-462-0599 to make an appointment. You can also e-mail wic.program@arkansas.gov.

Bring the following to the appointment:

  • ID for yourself and each child
  • proof that you are an Arkansas resident
  • proof of income
  • any child or children you are applying for