Program at a Glance

Georgia’s WIC is the nation's fifth largest Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. The Food and Nutrition Service administers the program at the federal level and provides funds to state agencies for implementation. At the state level, the Department of Community Health, Georgia Department of Public Health, Maternal and Child Health Program, Office of Nutrition and WIC administers the program.

WIC has provided nutrition education and supplemental foods to low income families for over thirty years. In federal fiscal Year (FFY) 2010, Georgia’s WIC provided benefits to approximately 303, 000 participants.. WIC contributes approximately $3.3 billion to the state's economy.

Georgia’s WIC services are provided through 18 health districts and two contract agencies. Services are provided at over 220 locations including: 172 health departments, 28 community health centers, 13 hospitals, 5 military bases, and 2 Division of Family and Children Services (DFACS) offices. Of these locations, 99 sites provide WIC and other services during a WIC visit, 98 provide other services by referral within the same location, and 26 provide other services by referral to another location. Most locations have extended hours.

There are approximately 1,600 authorized vendors that are participating in the WIC food delivery system who were redeeming approximately one million vouchers each month.

Eligibility

WIC serves women, infants, and children in families with income at or below 185 percent of the federally poverty level or enrolled in Medicaid; and who are at risk for nutritional deficiencies. Participant categories consist of pregnant, postpartum and breast-feeding women; infants and children up to their fifth birthday.

To apply for WIC services, contact either the State WIC office or your local health department.

Services

Participants receive a nutrition assessment, health screening, medical history, body measurements (weight and height), hemoglobin check, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, referrals to other health and social services, and vouchers for healthy foods.

Program Objectives

• Increase entry into care for prenatals, infants and children
• Increase infant breastfeeding initiation and duration
• Decrease number of children who are overweight or obese
• Increase nutrition education of participants
• Utilize technology to maximize efficiency

Non-discrimination Statement

In accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.

To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call toll free (866) 632-9992 (Voice).

Individuals who are hearing impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish).

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.