Will County Health Department - Joliet WIC

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
8:30AM – 4:15PM
(CLOSED 3rd Friday of each month for meetings)

Wednesday
10:30AM – 6:15PM

Here's how you can apply for WIC in Illinois:

Eligibility:
    Residency: Must be a resident of Illinois.
    Category: Pregnant, breastfeeding (up to 1 year postpartum), new mother (up to 6 months postpartum), infant, or child under five.
    Income: Meet income guidelines (based on family size and income).
    Nutritional Risk: Be determined to be at nutritional risk by a healthcare professional.

Services:
    Healthy Foods: Receive vouchers for specific nutritious foods like milk, cheese, eggs, fruits, vegetables, cereal, and juice.
    Nutrition Education: Learn about healthy eating for yourself and your children, including breastfeeding support.
    Healthcare Referrals: Get connected with a doctor, dentist, or other healthcare providers.

Benefits:
    Improved health outcomes: Reduces low birth weight babies, improves child growth and development, increases vaccination rates, reduces iron deficiency anemia, and improves diet quality.
    Saves money: Provides nutritious food at no cost.
    Connects to healthcare: Helps ensure access to needed medical care.

Here are some additional points to consider:
    Multiple agencies involved: WIC services are administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) but often delivered by local health departments or community organizations.
    Benefits vary: The specific food package and amount of food assistance you receive may vary depending on your individual needs and circumstances.
    Support beyond food: WIC programs may also offer additional support services like breastfeeding counseling, immunizations, and referrals to other social services.