Barry Eaton WIC Growing Strong & Healthy Families

01/16/2026

The shorter, darker days and lack of sunlight can make January feel long and tough to get through at times. Remember, taking care of your mental health is part of taking care of your family. It's okay to not be okay, you ❤

Need additional support or someone to talk to? Talk with your local WIC clinic for mental health resources or get in touch with text or call based support from the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/national-maternal-mental-health-hotline

01/14/2026

It may be chilly outside but it won’t stop us from getting outside to exercise and enjoy the crisp air this winter! ❄️

Bundle up and go on a family walk together, make snowmen or angels, or try sledding! 🛷
Too cold and snowy to go outside? Try putting some fun music on and have a dance party to get some movement in! 💃🕺

Check out more indoor and outdoor winter movement ideas for the whole family: https://www.chop.edu/news/health-tip/fun-ways-keep-kids-active-through-winter

01/12/2026

Not all birth defects can be prevented. However, there are steps you can take to help you and your baby be as healthy as you can be 🫶

🌟Get 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day
🌟Try to reduce your risk for infections, including regular hand washing
🌟Get recommended vaccines
🌟Get tested for sexually transmitted infections
🌟See a healthcare professional regularly
🌟Talk to a healthcare professional about taking any medications
🌟Avoid alcohol, to***co, and other recreational drugs

Get more information about how to stay healthy during pregnancy: https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/blog/good-health-habits-and-birth-defects-prevention

01/09/2026

Folic Acid is an important B vitamin that helps the body make healthy new cells. While everyone needs folic acid, people who are pregnant, or plan on becoming pregnant, need extra folic acid supplementation in addition to eating vitamin-rich foods. Getting enough folic acid before and during pregnancy can prevent major birth defects in a developing baby’s spine and brain.

Some foods with folic acid include:
🥬 Leafy green vegetables
🍑 Fresh, frozen, and canned fruits
🫘Dried or canned beans, fresh or frozen peas, and nuts
🍞Enriched breads, cereals, and other whole grain products

Learn more about the importance of folic acid in pregnancy: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/prenatal/Pages/Where-We-Stand-Folic-Acid.aspx

12/31/2025

As this year comes to an end, we're reflecting on a year of happy, healthy babies and strong, supported families. Thank you for letting WIC be a part of your journey.

From all of us at WIC, we wish you a joyous new year! 🎉 We can't wait to see you in 2026.

#2026

12/30/2025

If you are currently pregnant and live in Barry or Eaton county-- check it out!

Our breastfeeding/ infant feeding classes start up this coming Monday, January 5th from 1-2pm in Barry County and next month Thursday, February 5th in Eaton County!

This FREE class is for pregnant people in Barry or Eaton counties. Participants are encouraged to bring one support person.

Interested in signing up? Call one of our offices: Barry (269) 945-9516 or Eaton (517) 541-2630, ask during a WIC or immunization appointment or email: WIC@bedhd.org.

12/26/2025

Dried beans are the WIC-approved food of the month! Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, beans are a budget friendly superhero for your family's meals. Just one cup of dried beans becomes about three cups cooked!

💡 Plan Ahead for Easy Meals: Cook a big batch on your day off! Then, use your ready-to-go beans all week long. They're perfect for tacos, stews, salads, and more!

Learn more about dried beans and how to cook them: https://wicworks.fns.usda.gov/topic/what-do-i-do-with/beans

12/23/2025

Warmest wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season from your friends at WIC! 🧡

This time of year is all about creating special moments and memories with your family. What is your family’s favorite holiday tradition? ✨

P.S. A friendly reminder that our offices will be closed on 12/24, 12/25, 12/31, and 1/1. We're excited to continue supporting you in the new year!

12/19/2025

Get ready for the holidays with some sweet treats to share with friends and family this season! 🍪 Baking with kids can be a fun bonding activity and can also help them learn baking measurements and steps, practice fine motor skills, and how to read recipes! 🌟

Check out these recipes for desserts using WIC ingredients: www.health.state.mn.us/people/wic/recipes/desserts.html&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1763588161585400&usg=AOvVaw33yfNDqVucSBduliyB_Mfq

12/17/2025

Traveling with your breastfeeding baby can feel overwhelming, but it’s totally doable with a little preparation. And WIC can help!

Use these tips to make your holiday travel smoother for you and your baby: https://www.cdc.gov/infant-toddler-nutrition/breastfeeding/travel-recommendations.html

12/15/2025

As the weather cools down, it’s the perfect time to make warm, nourishing meals that your whole family can enjoy! Get ideas with our winter weather favorites using WIC-approved foods:

🥣 Oatmeal, grits, or cream of wheat with your favorite toppings (fresh or frozen fruit with your favorite milk OR cheese and an egg on top for a savory option)
🍚 Rice and beans, canned or dried, with your favorite seasonings (you could cook your rice in broth for extra flavor!)
🍜 Soups and stews using your family’s favorite veggies (you can add in beans or whole grain pasta to boost the nutrition of your recipe)

What are your family’s favorite winter meals? 🍲 Share in the comments!

12/12/2025

Did you know good hand washing is your child's first line of defense against the spread of many illnesses? 🫧 It helps protect them from everything from the common cold and the flu to more serious infections.

Learn more about why handwashing is important for your child’s health: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/hand-washing.html