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Nutrition for Women, Infants, and Children: Harris County WIC Program

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In need of WIC Services in Harris County? The Shaver WIC Clinic has You Covered!

Navigating the world of nutrition and ensuring that your family has access to the proper resources can be a overwhelming task, especially for those facing financial hardship. If you reside in Harris County and are in need of support, look no further than the Shaver WIC Clinic, a beacon of hope for families seeking assistance with WIC services.

At the Shaver WIC Clinic, we understand the challenges families face and are dedicated to providing a helping hand. Our compassionate team of professionals is here to guide you through the WIC application process, ensuring that you receive the support you need to nourish your family.

The Shaver WIC Clinic offers a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of families in Harris County. These services include:

  • Nutrition education and counseling
  • Breastfeeding support
  • Access to healthy food and formula
  • Immunizations
  • Health screenings
  • Referrals to other community resources

Our WIC services are designed to provide families with the tools and resources necessary to make informed choices about their health and nutrition. We believe that every family deserves access to the support they need to thrive, and we are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of Harris County families.

If you are a Harris County resident and are interested in learning more about the Shaver WIC Clinic, please contact us today. We would be happy to answer any questions you have and assist you in determining your eligibility for WIC services. Together, we can work towards a healthier future for your family.

Harris County Public Health Shaver WIC

Providing Nutritional Support and Education to Families in Need

Introduction

Harris County Public Health (HCPH), located in Houston, Texas, operates the Shaver Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program, a federally funded program that provides nutritional support and education to eligible families with young children. This article explores the services offered by the Shaver WIC Clinic, eligibility criteria, and the positive impact it has on the community.

Understanding WIC Services

The Shaver WIC Program offers a wide range of services to eligible families, including:

  • Nutritional Counseling: Registered dietitians provide personalized nutrition counseling to families, helping them make informed food choices and establish healthy eating habits.

  • Food Assistance: WIC provides vouchers or checks that can be used to purchase nutritious foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, milk, eggs, cheese, and infant formula.

  • Breastfeeding Support: WIC promotes breastfeeding and provides support to mothers who choose to breastfeed. Lactation consultants are available to answer questions, provide guidance, and help mothers overcome breastfeeding challenges.

  • Health Screening and Referrals: WIC staff conduct health screenings for children and provide referrals for medical care if needed. They also connect families with other community resources, such as immunizations, dental care, and housing assistance.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Shaver WIC Program, families must meet the following criteria:

  • Income Guidelines: Families must meet income guidelines based on the federal poverty level.

  • Residency: Families must reside in Harris County, Texas.

  • Categorical Eligibility: Pregnant women, breastfeeding women up to one year postpartum, and children under the age of five are eligible for WIC benefits.

Registration and Application Process

Families interested in enrolling in the Shaver WIC Program can do so by visiting any WIC clinic in Harris County. The registration process typically involves providing proof of identity, proof of income, proof of residency, and a child's birth certificate or immunization record.

Benefits of WIC Participation

Participating in the Shaver WIC Program offers numerous benefits for families, including:

  • Improved Nutritional Health: WIC provides access to nutritious foods, helping families improve their overall health and well-being.

  • Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Eating a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

  • Better Pregnancy Outcomes: WIC support during pregnancy can help improve birth outcomes and reduce the risk of low birth weight and premature birth.

  • Enhanced Child Development: WIC provides nutrients essential for a child's growth and development, supporting cognitive, physical, and social development.

Impact on the Community

The Shaver WIC Program has a positive impact on the community by:

  • Reducing Food Insecurity: WIC helps families facing food insecurity access nutritious foods, ensuring that children have the nourishment they need to thrive.

  • Promoting Breastfeeding: WIC's breastfeeding support helps increase breastfeeding rates, which is beneficial for both mothers and babies.

  • Improving Health Outcomes: WIC participation is associated with improved health outcomes for children, including reduced rates of anemia, iron deficiency, and dental caries.

  • Supporting Local Economy: WIC generates economic activity by providing funding to local grocery stores and farmers' markets.

Conclusion

The Harris County Public Health Shaver WIC Program plays a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of families in need. Through its comprehensive services, WIC helps families access nutritious foods, receive nutrition education, and connect with healthcare resources. The program's positive impact on the community is evident in improved nutritional health, reduced risk of chronic diseases, better pregnancy outcomes, enhanced child development, and reduced food insecurity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What documents are required for WIC registration?
  • Proof of identity
  • Proof of income
  • Proof of residency
  • Child's birth certificate or immunization record
  1. How often can I receive WIC benefits?
  • WIC benefits are typically issued monthly.
  1. What foods can I purchase with WIC vouchers?
  • Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, milk, eggs, cheese, and infant formula.
  1. Does WIC provide breastfeeding support?
  • Yes, WIC provides breastfeeding support and lactation consultants to help mothers who choose to breastfeed.
  1. How can I find the nearest WIC clinic?
  • You can find a list of WIC clinics in Harris County on the HCPH website.
Video ¿Conoce WIC?
Source: CHANNET YOUTUBE Harris County Public Health