Adding a new member to the family can include so many added costs. Diapers, formula, clothes: the list goes on. Thankfully there are a ton of resources available to help, you just have to know where to look.

One of the most popular programs is WIC. WIC stands for Women, Infants, and Children. It is a supplemental nutrition program for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, including their children up to 5 years old. Anyone who is already receiving state insurance or food stamps is automatically approved for WIC. Even if you or your child have private insurance, you may still qualify for WIC.  I was pleasantly surprised to learn that my daughters both qualified, and I even qualified to receive some benefits as well even though I did not receive Medicaid.  

How it works: Every month I can see my benefits loaded onto the app on my phone. At your appointment, you’ll receive a card to use just like a debit or credit card at the grocery store. The benefits change month-to-month depending on the age of your baby. However, this month I received 10 cans of my daughter’s formula, money to spend on fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as other benefits like milk, eggs, and cheese. You do have to be careful of certain brands and sizes, however, the app makes it easier than ever to use.  You simply scan the barcode of the product with your phone and the app will tell you if it is an approved product or not. The savings on the formula are incredible. Before WIC, I was spending around $600 a month on formula alone.  WIC has been an absolute lifesaver! 

To apply, you will need to set up an appointment at the WIC office- which is located at the St. Clair County Health Department. You can call their number (810-987-8222) to set up an appointment and someone there can give you more information on the qualifications. It is worth the phone call- trust me!

For BlueWaterParent.com – Alyssa Dock