Mercer County, IL Health Department WIC

305 Nw 7th St
Aledo, IL - 61231
(309) 582-3759

County: Mercer County

Website

** Please call to verify all WIC Hours posted on the website as hours change frequently.

Office Information:

WIC Hours: Mon.-Thurs. - 8:00am to 5:00pm 3rd Tuesday of each month - 8:00am-6:00pm.

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.

The Official WIC program is available to low to moderate income pregnant women, recently delivered women, breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutrition risk. Fathers can also bring their children to apply for WIC. You may apply for WIC if you are working or unemployed. Check the Income Guidelines Table to see if you are eligible for WIC. This website was created for women looking for WIC information and locations. We are also working towards adding other locations and services that may help out women.