Broome County WIC Program Celebrates 30 Yearas of Service
BINGHAMTON, NY - Broome County’s Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children – better known as the WIC program – today is holding a celebratory event in recognition of its 30 years of service to Broome County families. The event is taking place at WIC’s main site located at the Broome County Health Department, 225 Front Street, Binghamton, New York, from 10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. There will be crafts, interactive games and activities for young children, giveaways, tasty nutritious treats, as well as information for families with young children. The Just Say Yes to Fruits and Veggies Van will provide nutrition education and food demonstrations. Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians will be present to provide free child safety seat inspections.
WIC is a federal program that was established in 1974 to address the nutritional needs of low income women and children. The program offers income-eligible pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, infants and children a healthy start by providing nutrition education, breastfeeding support and nutrient rich foods to those at greatest health risk. WIC also serves as an important resource for community referrals to maternal and child health and human service programs.
“We are proud of the accomplishments the WIC program has made through the years. WIC has provided services to over 100,000 Broome County residents and brings over four million food dollars into local markets each year. Research has shown its effectiveness; women on WIC deliver fewer low birth weight infants in comparison to the general population and children exhibit a decreased incidence in obesity,” said Claudia Edwards, Public Health Director for the Broome County Health Department.
Today, the Broome County WIC program provides benefits to over 5,300 participants. Eligibility is based on residential, categorical, nutritional and economic factors as determined by the local WIC program. It is sponsored by the New York State Department of Heath and has generous income guidelines set at 185 percent above the federal poverty level. “This would translate into a family of four earning $40,793 and still qualifying for the program.” said Beth Huber, WIC Nutrition Services Director for the Broome County Health Department. “People are always surprised to hear this number and in these tough economic times, WIC can really help families save and stretch their food dollars.”
For more information about the WIC program or to see if you qualify for WIC benefits, call the Broome County Health Department at 607.778.2881.
Posted: 7/26/2010 10:43 am
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