WIC offers services over the telephone, expands eligible products in S.C.

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Those who rely on government services to keep their families fed endure hardships regardless of a global pandemic, and the outbreak of COVID-19 across all corners of the globe has produced even further strains.

To help families during this challenging time, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control announced Thursday that all WIC (Woman Infant and Children) nutrition services will be issued remotely. Starting Monday, April 13, state WIC participants will no longer be required to visit WIC clinics. Appointments and issuing nutritional services will instead be done over the phone.

"We recognize that many South Carolinian families are facing hardships during this time ... We are able to ensure that our WIC moms and babies continue to have access to nutritional foods and health services," State WIC Director Berry Kelly said.

To help address WIC product shortages that have occurred due to COVID-19, WIC participants may now also choose from expanded options in a variety of food categories. Product expansions include being able to buy half-gallons of milk instead of gallons, 8-ounce packs of cheese instead of 16 ounces and 9- or 24-ounce boxes of WIC-approved cereal instead of 12, 18 or 36.

"We encourage South Carolina families who are experiencing loss of income related to COVID-19 to apply to our WIC program," Berry said.

As of March, WIC was providing services to 76,803 participants across the state. That is an increase of 2,103 participants from the previous month.

To apply for WIC, call 1-855-472-3432 to make an appointment. If you are a WIC participant and have any questions or concerns, contact your local WIC office.