Belmont County WIC Program

05/20/2026

The WIC Office will be closed on Friday at Noon through Monday the 25th for Memorial Day.

Send a message to learn more

05/20/2026

If you or your child has a food allergy, intolerance, or other adverse reaction to certain foods, WIC staff can customize your food package to fit your needs. That means more choices, fewer worries, and better support for your family's nutritional health!

For food allergy resources, visit https://wicworks.fns.usda.gov/rescources/food-allergies

05/20/2026

Did you know? Your baby's skin can play a role in whether they develop a food allergy! Even before your baby is introduced to solids and new foods, they can still come into direct contact with food allergens through their skin. If this happens regularly, it may increase their chances of developing an allergy to that particular food.

Studies show that while eating an allergen early can protect your baby from that food allergy, but if that same food touches their skin regularly, it can actually raise the risk of an allergy.

So how can help protect your baby's skin? We suggest: Wash your hands after eating, especially if the food you ate is a common allergans. Then wash your hands again before touching your baby's skin, such as during diaper changes or when putting on lotions or creams.

To learn more about this and other food allergy topics, visit www.fampitfamily.org

05/20/2026

Just like during pregnancy, eating healthy and nutrient-dense foods while breastfeeding or pumping is important! WIC offers specialized food packages for parents who are breastfeeding or combo-feeding their child up to 12 months old.

You local WIC clinic may also provide breastfeeding and pumping supplies, and many parents can access free lactation support from peer counselors and International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs).

05/13/2026

Nutrient Highlight: Iodine

Iodine is an essential mineral during all stages of life! Iodine supports the thyroid by producing hormones necessary to regulate metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature.

Iodine is also important during pregnancy! Regular iodine intake helps form the cerebral cortex, neural pathways, and hippocampus, helping you baby's cognitive development!

The body cannot store iodine for long periods of time, so try to incorporate iodine regularly into your diet! Dairy, seaweed, and seafood are all plentiful sources of iodine.

05/13/2026

WIC-Approved Food of the Month: Peas

Peas are the WIC-approved food of the month! Peas are packed with health benefits, and they're a highly versatile kitchen staple that can be eaten raw, steamed, boiled, roasted, or pan-fried.

Peas are packed with antioxidants that help build your immune system. They also contain carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which can protect your eyes from chronic diseases! Peas are also a great source of protein and fiber, helping your body break down carbohydrates and manage your blood sugar!

This month, try incorporating peas in your family's diet. You can even experiment with different methods of cooking them.

05/13/2026

Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Month! At WIC, we are proud to provide compassionate care and health resources. We are here to support you, and we can help connect you with the resources you deserve!

05/13/2026

Women's Health Month

It's Women's Health Month! At WIC, we recognize the importance of taking care of your health and well-being. This month, we encourage you to learn more about prioritizing your health! Think about some ways you can think about your wellbeing:

-Schedule routine doctor visits and screenings.
-Incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine!
-Maintain a balanced diet to ensure you get all the nutrients your body needs!
-Raise awareness by educating yourself and the women around you.
All of us at WIC are here to help you be your healthiest self!

05/13/2026

National Foster Care Month

Did you know that foster children under age five are eligible for WIC, regardless of their foster parent(s) income?

With WIC, foster families have access to personalized nutrition education and health foods, plus healthcare referrals and information about additional support in your community!

05/12/2026

When to introduce common allergens to your baby

Did you know there's something you can do to help prevent your baby from developing food allergens? Evidence shows that introducing of major food allergens early can significantly lower the risk of food allergens among children.

You can introduce safely food allergens at the same time you start to offer other solid foods to your baby by taking steps like:

- Paying attention to timing: Start offering food allergens to your baby when they are developmentally ready, around 4 to 6 months, when other solids are introduced.
- Avoiding choking risks: Baby's first foods should always be in baby friendly forms.
- Being consistent: Any progress is a great start! The key is to be consistent andd gradually increase the amount of each allergen they eat.
- Offering lots of variety: While you don't want to offer two new foods in the same meal, giving your baby a chance to try lots of different foods over time helps them experience different flavors, textures, and nutrients.
- Keeping your healthcare and WIC team in the loop: Talk to your healthcare team and WIC clinic staff about food allergies early, even at your 1- or 3-month appointments or at WIC check-ins! They are here to support you with your feeding plans.

For more information on introducing allergens to your child's diet visit www.fampitfamily.org/early-allergen-introduction