If you’re raising a child under age five in southeast Michigan, you might assume a program like WIC isn’t for you. But the truth is, many families are eligible — and missing out on meaningful support simply because they’re not aware of what’s available.
We spoke with Lauren Cody, RD, IBCLC, Public Health Services Manager for WIC at the Macomb County Health Department and a member of the Southeast Michigan WIC Alliance.
Her team is dedicated to helping families access nutrition, breastfeeding support and early childhood resources through a compassionate, family-centered approach.
Many parents don’t realize just how much support WIC offers — or they assume it’s not meant for families like theirs. Here’s what you need to know:
Myth #1: You have to be on Medicaid or SNAP to qualify
Truth: Working families often qualify — even if they don’t receive any other assistance.
WIC’s income guidelines are higher than many people think. “For a family of four, the annual income level would have to be less than $59,478. That’s $28.59 an hour, gross income,” Cody explains.
Many dual-income or single-working-parent households are eligible, even without other public benefits.
Myth #2: WIC is just about free formula
Truth: WIC offers nutrition education and breastfeeding support — plus measures child growth and development, provides referrals and offers a significant grocery benefit.
The monthly food package can range from $70 to $250, depending on family size and life stage.
“It’s designed to take a little bit off the grocery bill every time you shop,” says Cody. Participants use an EBT card — no paper checks — and don’t need to buy everything at once. “It’s flexible, convenient and meant to fit your real life.”
WIC families also receive shopping guidance through short YouTube videos that explain how to shop for each food category, like yogurt, milk, eggs or fresh produce, helping reduce frustration at checkout.
Myth #3: If you don’t use all your WIC benefits, you lose them
Truth: WIC is here to help you make the most of your benefits — and help you overcome all barriers to using them.
“We talk with families to figure out what’s getting in the way,” Cody says. Whether it’s a confusing label, a frustrating trip to the store or not knowing how to redeem the benefit, WIC staff work with you to troubleshoot.
“It’s not about doing it perfectly. It’s about making it work for your family.”
Myth #4: WIC is only for single moms
Truth: WIC supports all kinds of families — dads, grandparents, foster parents, same-sex couples, immigrants (documented and undocumented) and more.
“If you’re caring for a child under five, we want to help,” says Cody. “Families come in all forms, and WIC is here for all of them.”
Myth #5: WIC ends when your baby grows up
Truth: WIC provides support from pregnancy through preschool — and can help you connect to other programs that ease the load of early parenthood. For example, many southeast Michigan health departments offer:
- Nurse-Family Partnership, a national, evidence-based program that pairs first-time, low-income pregnant people with registered nurses. These nurses provide regular support — from pregnancy through the child’s second birthday — offering health education, developmental guidance and emotional support during a critical window of growth.
- Families access a wide range of community resources, including:
- On-site immunizations
- Referrals to postpartum mental health services
- Lead testing
- Referrals for children with medical conditions to Children’s Special Health Care Services
- Connections to programs offering essentials like diapers, cribs and infant gear
Myth #6: WIC is just a grocery card
Truth: WIC gives families access to ongoing, personalized nutrition support from registered dietitians and nutrition professionals — at no cost.
One of WIC’s most valuable — and often overlooked — services is free, judgment-free nutrition counseling. “You could ask as many questions as you want. You could come and see us as many times as you need to. We are here for your family,” says Cody.
This expert guidance helps with real-life parenting challenges, including picky eating, food allergies and toddler transitions. It’s the kind of meal-planning support parents didn’t know they needed — and didn’t know was free.
Is WIC right for you?
WIC isn’t a last-resort program — it’s a proactive support system built for today’s families.
Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, newly postpartum or deep into toddler life, WIC can help lighten your load and connect you to a community that cares.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, ask. The support is here — and it’s meant for you.
This content is sponsored by Southeast Michigan WIC Alliance. Discover the many benefits of WIC.
