The market is a special event for WIC participants; no appointment is needed. Participants can simply walk in, sign and select from a variety of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables up to $30 in value per WIC family. WIC nutritionists will provide food-health education prior to produce selection.
WIC -- Women, Infants and Children -- is a nutrition-education and supplemental-foods program that helps families who qualify based on income and household size make healthy food choices. WIC also serves pregnant and postpartum women, infants and children up to five years of age. Bartow County residents who are currently receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program, formerly Food Stamps) may also be eligible for WIC benefits and may request a referral to WIC.
Anyone interested in applying for the WIC Program should call the Bartow County Health Department or come by the health department Monday through Wednesday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Thursday 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
At the appointment, WIC staff will screen for income, perform nutrition assessment and education, provide breastfeeding support, help find social services or public assistance and distribute vouchers to help purchase supplemental foods.
For more information, call the Bartow County Health Department at 770-382-1920.