Maine WIC Nutrition Program

About Maine WIC

The Maine Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program is a federally funded nutrition program that provides supplemental foods, healthcare referrals, and nutrition education for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, and to infants and children up to age five.

WIC is designed to improve the health of participants during critical times of growth and development. The Maine WIC Program serves over 20,000 participants monthly across the state, operating through local health departments, hospitals, and community health centers.

Research has consistently shown that WIC improves health outcomes for mothers and children, including longer pregnancies, fewer premature births, improved cognitive development, and better long-term health. Children participating in WIC have higher immunization rates and demonstrate better growth and development markers than their non-participating peers.

Our Mission

Maine WIC's mission is to safeguard the health of low-income women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk by providing nutritious foods to supplement diets, information on healthy eating, and referrals to health care. We believe that every child deserves a healthy start in life, regardless of family income.

Who is Eligible for Maine WIC?

To be eligible for Maine WIC benefits, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Categorical: Must be in one of these categories:
  • Pregnant women
  • Breastfeeding women (up to one year after the baby's birth)
  • Non-breastfeeding postpartum women (up to six months after the baby's birth)
  • Infants
  • Children up to their fifth birthday
• Residential: Must be a resident of the state of Maine (U.S. citizens and qualified non-citizens)
• Income: Must have an income at or below 185% of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines, or participate in other assistance programs such as SNAP, TANF, or MaineCare
  • A family of four earning up to $4,625 monthly (as of 2023) may qualify
• Nutritional Risk: Must be determined to be at nutritional risk by a health professional
  • This includes conditions such as anemia, underweight, overweight, or poor diet

Father(s), grandparent(s), step-parent(s), or other guardians with legal custody of children under 5 may apply for WIC for their children.

Maine WIC Benefits

How to Apply for Maine WIC

Applying for WIC in Maine is simple and confidential. Here's how to get started:

1. Find Your Local WIC Office: Visit our locations section to find the WIC clinic nearest you.
2. Call to Make an Appointment: Contact your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment that works for your schedule.
3. Gather Required Documents:
   • Proof of identity (driver's license, birth certificate, etc.)
   • Proof of residency (utility bill, rent receipt, etc.)
   • Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, or proof of participation in other assistance programs)
   • Immunization records for children (if available)
4. Attend Your Appointment: During your first visit, you'll meet with a WIC nutritionist who will determine your eligibility and provide nutrition counseling.
5. Receive Your Benefits: If eligible, you'll receive your WIC food benefits during or shortly after your first appointment.

Maine WIC Locations

WIC services are available at convenient locations throughout Maine. Some of our major offices include:

Cumberland County

• Portland Public Health Division: 103 India Street, Portland, ME 04101
• Windham WIC Office: 39 School Road, Windham, ME 04062

Penobscot County

• Bangor WIC Office: 103 Texas Avenue, Bangor, ME 04401
• Penobscot Nation Health Department: 57 Wabanaki Way, Indian Island, ME 04468

York County

• Sanford WIC Office: 15 School Street, Sanford, ME 04073
• York County Community Action: 6 Spruce Street, Sanford, ME 04073

Kennebec County

• Augusta WIC Office: 24 Winthrop Street, Augusta, ME 04330
• Kennebec Valley Community Action: 97 Water Street, Waterville, ME 04901

For a complete list of WIC offices throughout Maine, visit the Maine Health and Human Services website or call our toll-free WIC hotline at 1-800-437-9300.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still get WIC if I'm working?

Yes! Working families may qualify for WIC. Your eligibility is based on your income, number of people in your household, and other factors.

Can fathers or grandparents get WIC?

While WIC benefits are primarily for women, infants, and children, fathers, grandparents, step-parents, and foster parents who are the primary caregivers for children under 5 can apply for benefits for their children.

What if I don't breastfeed? Can I still get WIC?

Yes! WIC supports all feeding choices. Infant formula is provided for babies who are not breastfed. However, if you do breastfeed, you may receive additional food benefits and breastfeeding support.

How long can I stay on WIC?

Women can participate during pregnancy and up to one year after giving birth if breastfeeding, or six months if not breastfeeding. Children from birth to age five are eligible for WIC benefits.

Do I need to reapply for WIC?

WIC benefits are provided in certification periods. You will need to reapply at the end of each certification period to continue receiving benefits. Your local WIC office will notify you when it's time to reapply.

Can I use WIC benefits anywhere?

WIC benefits can only be used at authorized WIC retailers. Look for the "WIC Accepted Here" signs at Maine grocery stores and pharmacies.

What if I move while receiving WIC?

If you move within Maine, contact your new local WIC office to transfer your benefits. If you move to another state, your benefits can be transferred to that state's WIC program.

Success Stories