First Steps WIC Nutrition

First Steps Maternity Support Services

Wic NutritionWelcome to First Steps Maternity Support Services (First Steps). The program is designed to help meet the medical and social service needs of pregnant women. Registered nurses, registered dietitians, behavioral health specialists, community health workers, and infant case managers teach and support women throughout their pregnancy. Depending on the circumstance, services may last until the baby’s first birthday.

All pregnant women covered under Medicaid are eligible for services. Women who have no medical coverage or partial medical coverage may also be eligible for First Steps. Services are provided in the local communities throughout Grant County. Services include:

  • Free pregnancy testing
  • Assistance in obtaining early and regular medical care
  • Assistance in applying for Medicaid services
  • Information and education about pregnancy, labor and delivery
  • Diet and nutrition counseling
  • Information and education about baby care and parenting skills
  • Assistance in accessing dental and vision care
  • Childcare during prenatal appointments
  • Car seat safety check
  • Family Planning services
  • Assistance in obtaining paternity information
  • Assistance with housing and transportation
  • Substance abuse counseling
  • Breastfeeding support

WIC Nutrition Program

The WIC Nutrition Program serves over 4,000 pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, infants 0 – 12 months, and children under 5 years old each month across Grant County. The primary location for services is at Moses Lake Community Health Center. Satellite offices are also located in Quincy, Ephrata, Warden, and by the Moses Lake Airport. In 2007, 78% of the infants born in Grant County were served by WIC.

Washington State WIC Nutrition ProgramThrough participation in the WIC Nutrition Program, families are offered health screenings, nutrition education, nutrient-rich foods, breastfeeding support and referrals to other health and social services. Not only does WIC help families, the local economy benefits from our program as well. The checks given to WIC clients each month to purchase nutritious foods brought over $3.7 million to local grocery stores and $13,743 to local farmers in 2007.

The mission of the Washington WIC Nutrition Program is to improve the lifelong health and nutrition of women, infants, and young children in Washington State.