During the Covid-19 pandemic, the Barton County Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program will continue to operate through the Barton County Health Department. Current participants will continue to receive WIC benefits and new applicants will be assessed, certified and issued benefits.
Clinic operating hours and staff availability will be subject to local and state orders related to the pandemic. Currently, the Barton County WIC Program is in operation 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Normally, participants and applicants of the program must be physically present to receive services. But, effective Monday, the United States Department of Agriculture and the Kansas State Agency waived the physical presence requirement.
This waiver applies to areas in which WIC clinics have been closed to the public or in areas that are under a current stay at home order. The physical presence waiver will also be used for those persons who are under quarantine, whether voluntary or involuntary.
WIC appointments may now be conducted using telephone, computer and other technology. Clinic staff will assess and certify applicants for eligibility and will issue food benefits remotely to those determined eligible.
Applicants and current participants should contact the WIC clinic to find out what options are available. The Barton County Health Department is located at 1300 Kansas Ave. in Great Bend and can be reached at 620-793-1909.
Food benefits are purchased at approved grocery stores using an e-WIC card. Cards and program information may be issued to participants through a controlled physical pick up, such as a curbside pick-up process or cards and information may be mailed directly to participants.
Local clinics will determine the most appropriate way to issue materials based on staffing and logistical resources.
About WIC
WIC services include providing supplemental food benefits, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to health and social services.
Currently, each woman and child receives healthy foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables with a retail value of about $37 per month and about $41 per month respectively. Infants who are not breastfed and receive infant formula receive infant formula with a retail value of approximately $152 per month.
Important: If you or anyone in your family have a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, please call the local WIC office and reschedule your appointment. You may be able to complete your WIC appointment over the phone.
Additional details about the Kansas WIC Program can be found at www.kansaswic.org/families/.
