Ohio

Pregnant women and mothers in Ohio have access to a variety of food assistance programs and nutrition education services designed to promote health and well-being throughout pregnancy and early childhood. Here are the key resources available:

Food Assistance Programs
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program – Ohio
The Ohio WIC program offers supplemental nutritious foods, breastfeeding support, nutrition education, and health and social service referrals. Eligible participants include pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women and infants and children under 5 years old.

Visit the Ohio WIC Program for more information on eligibility and call 1-800-755-GROW (4769) for local office information.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Ohio
SNAP offers monthly benefits on an Ohio Direction Card (EBT) to purchase groceries for low-income families. Pregnant women and mothers can apply for SNAP to ensure consistent access to nutritious foods for themselves and their families. Visit Ohio SNAP for more eligibility information.

Food Banks and Pantries
Local food banks and pantries across Ohio provide emergency food assistance to needy families. Many partner with organizations to distribute fresh produce and healthy food items. Call Ohio 2-1-1 or visit the Ohio 2-1-1 website to find nearby resources.

Ohio Association of Foodbanks
Provides access to food pantries, mobile food distributions, and emergency grocery assistance for families across the state. Find a Local Foodbank.

Community Support and Emergency Food Resources
The Salvation Army – Ohio Divisions: Offers food baskets, community meals, and emergency food boxes.

Ohio 2-1-1: Connects families to local food pantries, hot meal programs, and nutrition services. Call 2-1-1 or visit: Ohio 2.1.1.

Nutrition Education Programs

Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)

Through Ohio WIC, eligible participants receive vouchers to buy fresh fruits and vegetables from approved farmers’ markets during the growing season. Learn more about FMNP in Ohio.

Cooking and Nutrition Education Programs
Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), offered through Ohio State University Extension, provides free, hands-on nutrition classes for low-income families. Topics include healthy meal planning, grocery budgeting, and cooking skills. Visit EFNEP Ohio – OSU Extension for more information

Many public health centers provide nutrition education as part of prenatal and parenting support.