Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
WIC Participation Numbers
Current Value
6,295
Definition
Story Behind the Curve
Onslow County WIC participation continues increasing and exceeding targets established by NC Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS). In January - May 2022, NC DHHS set 6,435 as a target for WIC participation. Additional federal funding was received by NC DHHS to increase target participation to 7,501 in June - September 2022. Even with the increased participation targets, WIC continues to exceed NC DHHS established targets. Possible reasons for this include remote issuance due to the COVID-19 public health emergency and increased WIC outreach in the community. In September 2022, WIC started seeing clients in-person while continuing remote issuance as requested by clients. Should remote issuance no longer be allowed by NC DHHS, it is estimated WIC's participation will decrease by up to 25%.
Partners
What Works
Action Plan
- Train 100% of all WIC Breastfeeding Curriculum Level III Competent Professional Authorities (CPAs) on the proper use, inventory and maintenance of breast pumps and other aids.
- Provide participant-centered breastfeeding promotion and support continuing education to WIC staff.
- Educate prenatal participants on anticipatory guidance topics:
- Breastfeeding Benefits
- Importance of Support
- Hospital Practices and Impact on Success
- Breastfeed as soon as possible after birth