Webster County Health Unit, WIC Program

WIC Program

The Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Nutrition program is a supplemental food program for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or up to six-months postpartum, and for children up to five years old. Participants must qualify for the program based on income and nutritional risk.

Click here for WIC clinic locations and hours.

Each month the Webster County WIC program provides services to more than 900 women, infants and children. This vital grant from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has been renewed for the current service year.

WIC Goals

The goal of WIC is to improve the nutritional health of each participant. In order to meet this goal, the WIC program provides nutrition education, breastfeeding promotion and support, medical care referrals and nutritious foods that are high in protein and iron.

Foods provided to participants may include: milk, eggs, cheese, cereal, tuna, juice, infant formula, peanut butter, beans, whole grain breads and fresh fruits and vegetables.

Breastfeeding Assistance

The Webster County Health Unit has a certified International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) on staff to assist with breastfeeding education, questions and concerns. Services are provided to all women at no cost, regardless of their enrollment in WIC.

An IBCLC counselor is also available to resolve breastfeeding issues. During regular business hours, call 417-859-2532. After-hours call the Health Unit's Breastfeeding Support Hotline at 417-380-2691.

Manual and mini-electric breast pumps are available to WIC clients at no cost. Hospital-grade electric breast pumps are available with a $45.00 cash deposit, of which $25.00 is refunded when the breastpump is returned in keeping with the terms of the contract.

The breastfeeding support group Mothers Nurturing Mothers meets at the Health Unit the last Tuesday of each month from 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Ladies share concerns and issues with one another, offer advice and laugh together about their children. This group is open to all breastfeeding moms. Teens or ladies who are considering breastfeeding are also welcome to attend.

Childbirth Classes

Childbirth classes are offered quarterly at the Health Unit in Marshfield. Classes meet weekly for four weeks, helping participants gain a better understanding of the birthing process, changes to the woman's body, and how male partners can be supportive. Participants also learn how to create a birth plan, and are empowered with knowledge as they go into the labor process.

A $15.00 fee is required, which covers course materials. Call 859-2532 to register.