**** Important Notice****
Jackson County Health Department is aware of the baby formula shortages and is advising parents and caregivers to not make or feed homemade infant formula to infants. As formula shortages continue, WIC clients should continue to work with their child’s health care provider for recommendations on other ways to feed their baby or toddler if their regular formula is not available
Homemade Baby Formula is Not Safe
American Academy of Pediatrics and DCHD strongly advises against homemade formula. Although recipes for homemade formulas circulating on the internet may seem healthy or less expensive, they are not safe and do not meet your baby’s nutritional needs. Infant deaths have been reported from use of some homemade formulas.
Watering Down Formula is Not Safe
Do not water down formula to stretch it out, it is not safe. Always follow label instructions or those given to you by your pediatrician. Watering down formula is dangerous. It can cause nutritional imbalances in your baby and lead to serious health problems. Always mix formula as directed by the manufacturer.
What is WIC?
WIC is a supplemental nutrition program which offers services to
pregnant women, breastfeeding and postpartum women, infants and
children up to 5 years of age. Participants must meet income
eligibility requirements and be found to have a medical or dietary
health risk. For more information, call 618-684-3143, ext. 148.
Eligibility
To be eligible for this benefit program, you must be a resident of
Illinois and one of the following:
• Family income at 185 percent or less of the federal poverty level
• Nutritional needs (determined at first WIC appointment)
• Pregnant, breastfeeding or postpartum women, infants and children under 5 years of age
• Residents of Jackson County
What should I expect at my appointment?
WIC is a supplemental nutrition program which offers services to pregnant women, breastfeeding and postpartum women, infants and children up to 5 years of age. Participants must meet income eligibility requirements and be found to have a medical or dietary health risk. For more information, call 618 684-3143, ext. 148.
The following items are required to beginning the process of enrollment:
✓ Proof of income
✓ Proof of Residency
✓ Proof of Identification
Remember to bring your yellow WIC ID card to all appointments.
Services Available
The Jackson County Health Department also
has an on-site breastfeeding peer counselor to
help coach and encourage WIC mothers during
pregnancy and also after the birth of their child.
Other Services available: