WAYNE – As a response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) offices in Nebraska are closed to the public.
According to a release from the Department of Health and Human Services, Nebraska WIC offices are finding new ways to serve WIC families during the outbreak.
In a message from the Northeast Nebraska Community Action Partnership, effective March 23 all NENCAP Offices are closed to the public to prevent the spread of COVID-19. If clients are in need of services, they can call the Central Office at 402-385-6300 to be connected to staff in their area. All WIC/Immunization travelling clinics are closed as well but WIC services will continue to be provided as they are implementing remote services to keep client benefits intact. NENCAP will be monitoring any Immunization needs that arise.
In accordance with new guidelines limiting interaction among people in the state, the United States Department of Agriculture temporarily loosened regulations that guide the delivery of WIC services. Therefore, many WIC appointments can be conducted over the phone, including applying for the WIC program.
Current WIC families and those wanting to apply for WIC services, should contact their local WIC program to learn about how to schedule an appointment to apply for WIC.
Nebraska WIC is helping to ensure that mothers and young children have access to healthy foods, breastfeeding support and are accurately informed on maternal and child health and nutrition recommendations during this public health emergency.
Nebraska WIC serves women who are pregnant, just had a baby, infants and children under five years old. The program provides healthy food at no cost, breastfeeding support, nutrition information and referrals to about 33,000 women and children across Nebraska each month.
Specific waivers granted for Nebraska WIC can be found at the USDA.gov website, but they include the ability to complete an appointment without physical presence, and deferring height, weight and blood tests.