Illinois

Food Assistance Programs

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program
The WIC program in Illinois provides supplemental nutrition assistance, breastfeeding support, and nutrition education for pregnant women, postpartum mothers, and children under five. WIC benefits include access to healthy foods, personalized nutrition counseling, and referrals to healthcare services.
Visit the Illinois WIC Program page for more information on eligibility or call 1-800-323-4769 for local office details.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP helps low-income individuals and families purchase nutritious groceries. Pregnant women and mothers can apply for SNAP to ensure they have reliable access to healthy foods for themselves and their families. Visit the Illinois SNAP page for more information on eligibility and how to apply.

Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Nutrition Services
IDPH provides nutrition education and support to pregnant women and families through programs that emphasize healthy eating, food security, and proper prenatal nutrition. They work with local partners to offer community-based nutrition services.
For more information, visit IDPH Nutrition Services.

Food Banks and Pantries
Local food banks and pantries across Illinois offer emergency food assistance to families in need. Many of these pantries partner with community organizations to provide fresh produce and nutritious food items to households with limited access to food.
Call 2-1-1 or visit the Illinois 2-1-1 website to locate food pantries and other resources near you.

Emergency and Community Support

The Salvation Army – Illinois Division
The Salvation Army offers food assistance, meal programs, and emergency food baskets for families in need, including pregnant women and mothers. Their community centers provide access to various support services, including nutrition programs.
Visit The Salvation Army Illinois for more details.

Illinois 2-1-1
Illinois 2-1-1 is a free, confidential service that connects individuals to local food assistance programs, nutrition education, and other support services across the state. Call 2-1-1 or visit Illinois 2-1-1 for more information.

Nutrition Education Programs

Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)
FMNP provides vouchers to WIC participants and seniors to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at authorized farmers' markets. The program encourages access to local, nutritious foods while supporting Illinois farmers. Find participating markets through your local WIC office.

Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)
EFNEP, offered through the University of Illinois Extension, helps low-income families through hands-on classes focused on meal planning, budgeting, and healthy cooking.