All Wyandotte County WIC services will be offered by phone through at least July 31, according to an announcement by the Unified Government.
Normally some WIC services must be completed in person, but this requirement has been waived due to COVID-19, a spokesman stated.
A waiver was issued at the national level earlier this spring removing the physical presence requirement temporarily. The previous waiver was scheduled to end June 30, but the USDA approved an extension due to the continued threat of COVID-19.
“A parent shouldn’t have to choose between reducing COVID-19 risk and getting healthy food for their children,” said Ashley Lause, WIC coordinator with the Unified Government Health Department. “We are so happy to be able to offer resources by phone to help families stay healthy, while also keeping them as safe as possible from this virus.”
“We know that COVID-19 has put incredible strain on our community members. Many people have lost their job or are under other stressors to their finances and the wellbeing of their families. WIC is here to ensure that community members who are pregnant or have young children can put healthy food on their table,” Lause said.
WIC services available
Health Department WIC staff are equipped to serve both existing and new clients by phone. Staff are equipped to offer the following services by phone:
• Issue WIC benefits
• Complete WIC certifications
• Provide nutrition education
• Provide guidance on getting WIC-approved products if there are grocery store shortages
Wyandotte County residents may be eligible for WIC services if they are pregnant or have children under the age of five. Residents can access WIC services by calling 913-573-6720 or emailing [email protected].
More COVID-19 information and resources can be found at wycokck.org/COVID-19 or by calling 3-1-1.
- Information from the UG Health Department