West Virginia

Pregnant women and mothers in West Virginia can access food assistance and nutrition education through various state and community programs aimed at improving health and well-being. Here are the key resources available:

Food Assistance Programs

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program
The West Virginia WIC Program provides supplemental nutrition assistance, breastfeeding support, and nutrition education to pregnant women, postpartum mothers, infants, and children up to age five.

WIC benefits include

Healthy food packages
Personalized nutrition counseling
Breastfeeding support
Referrals to healthcare and other social services
Learn more about eligibility and find local offices by visiting the West Virginia WIC website or calling 1-304-558-0030.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
The West Virginia SNAP Program offers monthly benefits to help low-income families purchase groceries.
Pregnant women and mothers can apply for SNAP benefits online or at their local Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) office.

Food Banks and Pantries

Local food banks across West Virginia offer emergency food assistance, including

Mountaineer Food Bank
Facing Hunger Food Bank
These food banks distribute groceries through partner agencies, mobile pantries, and community centers statewide.
Find additional local food pantries by calling 2-1-1 or visiting WV 2-1-1.

Emergency and Community Support

The Salvation Army of West Virginia; The Salvation Army – West Virginia provides

Emergency meal programs
Food baskets and pantry services
Support for low-income families and pregnant women

West Virginia 2-1-1
Call 2-1-1 or visit WV 2-1-1 for referrals to emergency food assistance, shelters, and other nutrition programs throughout the state.

Nutrition Education Programs

Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs (FMNP)
The West Virginia WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program provides vouchers for WIC participants to purchase fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables from approved farmers’ markets.
This program supports healthy eating and helps local farmers.

Cooking and Nutrition Education Programs
Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)
Offered through West Virginia State University Extension Service and WVU Extension Service, EFNEP provides:
Hands-on cooking classes
Budget-friendly grocery shopping tips
Healthy eating guidance for pregnant women, mothers, and families

Public health departments and local clinics also offer prenatal nutrition education and parenting support classes.
By utilizing these resources, pregnant women, mothers, and families in West Virginia can gain access to healthy food, nutrition education, and critical support to improve their overall well-being.