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Texas

Pregnancy, birth and the first year in Texas, in 14 topics: from who runs maternal and child health to what happens at your newborn's screening.

Food Assistance and Nutrition Education

Pregnant women and mothers in Texas have access to various food assistance and nutrition education programs designed to improve their health and well-being. Below are key resources available:

Food Assistance Programs

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program
The Texas WIC program offers supplemental nutrition assistance, breastfeeding support, and nutrition education to pregnant women, postpartum mothers, and children under five. Benefits include healthy foods, personalized nutrition counseling, and referrals to healthcare services.
Eligibility: Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, postpartum women, infants, and children up to age five. Applicants must meet income guidelines and reside in Texas; U.S. citizenship is not required.
How to Apply: Schedule an appointment at a local WIC office. Many offices offer evening and Saturday hours for convenience.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP provides monthly benefits to help low-income individuals and families purchase nutritious food. Pregnant women may be eligible for SNAP benefits.
Eligibility: Applicants must meet income and resource limits. Pregnant women may qualify without meeting work requirements. Learn More
How to Apply: Apply online through the Your Texas Benefits website or visit a local SNAP office.

Food Banks and Pantries
Local food banks and pantries across Texas provide emergency food assistance to families in need.

North Texas Food Bank: Offers food assistance and can help with SNAP applications.

Houston Food Bank: Provides food assistance and SNAP application help.

Catholic Charities Dallas: Offers food pantry services to eligible families.

Nutrition Education Programs

Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)
EFNEP provides nutrition education to limited-resource families with young children, focusing on healthy eating, food preparation, and budgeting.
Services: Hands-on classes in meal planning, budgeting, and healthy cooking.
How to Access: Contact your local Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service office. Learn More

Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs (FMNP)
The FMNP allows WIC participants to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from authorized farmers' markets, promoting access to local, nutritious foods.
Eligibility: Must be a current WIC participant.
How to Participate: Receive FMNP vouchers from your WIC office and use them at participating farmers' markets. Learn More

By utilizing these resources, pregnant women and mothers in Texas can access nutritious foods and gain valuable knowledge to support their families' health and well-being.

Looking for an organization near you in Texas?

Hospitals, birth centers, doulas, WIC clinics, milk banks and more are listed by county. Enter a ZIP code or city to see yours.