Important Information from Reno County WIC: Program Benefits and How WIC Differs from SNAP Program

Heather Peterson, who coordinates the WIC Program in Reno County, shared helpful information for WIC participants and explained how WIC and SNAP nutrition assistance programs serve families in different ways.

WIC Benefits in Reno County

Families are encouraged to continue to use their benefits at this time throughout the government shutdown. Please keep an eye on your WIC Shopper app for additional guidance that would come from the state agency. In Reno County, we are still doing appointments in person, and so if you have an upcoming appointment, you will receive a reminder phone call, and we encourage you to continue to keep those appointments. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call the Reno County WIC Office at 620-259-8442.

WIC vs. SNAP: Understanding the Differences

WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, and SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, are both federal nutrition assistance programs administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), but they serve different purposes and populations. While both aim to improve food access and promote nutrition, WIC focuses on supporting the health and nutritional needs of specific groups—pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, as well as infants and children under five—who are at nutritional risk, whereas SNAP provides general food assistance to low-income individuals and families. 

"All families with children under the age of 5 that qualify for SNAP would qualify for WIC with their income so they could call to schedule an appointment with WIC if they haven't been utilizing those services," said Peterson.

About the WIC Program

For more than 50 years, the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program has been a trusted resource for families in Reno County. The program continues its long-standing mission to support the health and well-being of women, infants, and young children through nutrition, education, and community partnerships.

WIC’s impact begins early—often during pregnancy—and continues through a child’s fifth birthday. During these formative years, WIC provides not only nutritious food but also education, health monitoring, and connections to essential local services.

Program Services

• Nutritious Foods: WIC provides food packages specifically tailored to meet the nutritional needs of mothers, infants, and young children. These packages include a strong emphasis on fruits and vegetables—fresh, frozen, or canned—to help families bring wholesome foods into their homes.

• Nutrition Education: Participants receive education on healthy eating during pregnancy, breastfeeding support, and strategies for encouraging young children to develop healthy eating habits.

• Health Monitoring: For many families, WIC is their most consistent point of contact for health care. Staff routinely screen for growth issues and low hemoglobin levels, helping to identify potential health concerns early.

  • In the past year, WIC staff identified two children with critical anemia. Both children received prompt medical attention and have made full recoveries.

• Community Referrals: WIC staff connect families with other community programs and services that can further support family health, stability, and self-sufficiency.

Economic Impact

Beyond its health benefits, the WIC program also makes a measurable contribution to the local economy. By providing food benefits that can be redeemed at local vendors, WIC ensures that federal dollars are spent directly within Reno County.

Economic Highlights:

• Serves over 1,400 participants each month in Reno County

• Generates approximately $1 million annually in WIC benefits

• Supports six local grocery vendors that participate in the program

• Circulates dollars within the community, sustaining local businesses and contributing to the county’s economic stability

A Lasting Community Resource

WIC has become a cornerstone of community health and resilience. Many residents, including current and former families, recognize the program’s value from personal experience. Its multi-generational reach underscores the importance of maintaining strong local support and continuity of services.

Through its focus on nutrition, education, and partnership, the Reno County WIC program continues to ensure that every child has the opportunity to begin life healthy, nourished, and prepared for the future.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call the Reno County WIC Office at 620-259-8442.