HUNTINGTON, WV — The West Virginia Department of Health is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Since 1974, WIC has been vital in offering crucial nutrition assistance to vulnerable mothers and young children statewide.
The Office of Nutrition Services invites the community to commemorate this milestone at Ritter Park in Huntington. The event will be held on Monday, July 29, 2024, and will include program enrollment, family-friendly activities, informational booths, and a pop-up farmers’ market.
“We are so honored to celebrate 50 years of helping West Virginia families,” said Heidi Staats, Director of the Office of Nutrition Services. “We hope that you will join us as we continue to build upon this program and lay the foundation for healthier futures.”
A press conference during the event will feature comments from Dr. Matthew Christiansen, State Health Officer, and other guests. They will discuss the program’s significant impact and its importance to West Virginia families.
“The WIC program exemplifies our commitment to supporting the health of families,” said Dr. Christiansen. “Over the past five decades, WIC has made a profound difference in the lives of over 1.8 million West Virginians by providing vital support during critical developmental stages.”
The celebration at Ritter Park will kick off at 3:00 p.m. and is open to the public. Families and community partners are encouraged to attend and honor the program’s legacy in the state.
For more information about WIC services or applying for benefits, contact your local WIC clinic or call 304-558-0030. Additional details are available at https://dhhr.wv.gov/WIC.