To the Editor:

Good nutrition during pregnancy and in the first years of a child’s life is very important.

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides healthy food, breastfeeding support, nutrition advice, and referrals to other services that can help women and young children in need.

WIC is for pregnant women, moms of babies up to six months old, moms of breastfeeding babies up to 12 months old and children up to their fifth birthday. Dads, grandparents, and caregivers can also apply for children in their care.

Research has found that women who use WIC while pregnant have healthier births, reduced infant mortality, and better infant feeding practices. Children who use WIC have diets that are more nutritious and do better in school.

In Albany and Schenectady counties, the WIC Help New York program can help. WIC Help Specialists provide one-on-one services to connect you to the WIC program. They can tell you if you may be eligible, explain how WIC works, and set up your first appointment at a WIC clinic. It is free and confidential.

WIC can improve lifetime health for women, their infants, and young children, and may be able to help you and your child. Contact your local WIC Help Specialist today at 518-281-8771.

Vanessa Gee

WIC Help Specialist

Catholic Charities Tri-County Services

Albany