SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Providing nutritional education, nutritious foods and health referrals for participants at no charge is the mission of the Women, Infants and Children program at Shaw.

The program is based on income and is available to pregnant, breastfeeding or postpartum women as well as infants and children up to age five, said Rhonda Spencer, WIC Region IV director.

The Shaw WIC office is centrally located on Elm Street in the 400 area of base housing to make it easier for Shaw members to have access to the program, Ms. Spencer said. Alva Jones, WIC nutrition education specialist, said the WIC program helps families with little or no nutritional background make healthier choices for their families.

WIC participants are categorized by their nutritional risk after their nutritional needs are assessed by a health professional (a physician, nutritionist or nurse). Some risks, such as anemia, pregnancy complications or weight problems, are classified as medically-based risks. Other risks such as inappropriate nutrition practices or poor diet are classified as dietary risks. Nutritional risk assessments also determine the priority level of the participant, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service.

The program provides checks or vouchers to participants to increase the nutritional content in their diets. Provided foods, such as infant formula, eggs, milk, peanut butter, tuna and vegetables, are high in one or more of the following nutrients: protein, calcium, iron or Vitamins A and C, according to the USDA.

Currently, the Shaw WIC office provides services to about 600 participants, Ms. Spencer said.

Nationally, more than 8 million participants, 6 million of which are children and infants, receive WIC benefits each month, according to USDA statistics.

If a Shaw member would like to see if he or she qualifies for the program, a WIC representative will provide qualification requirements over the phone.

"The WIC program is important because we are able to provide education and nutrition to those who need it. We can also provide links to medical providers and registered dietitians," said Ms. Spencer.