Diana Meckley introduced Grace McKenzie the Outreach Coordinator for WIC (Women, Infants and Children).
 
Grace has worked in Community Relations and Outreach with non-profit organizations for the past 15 years. She holds a master’s degree in Education from Buffalo State College and is currently employed by Catholic Charities of Buffalo as the Outreach Coordinator for WIC covering Erie, Niagara & Chautauqua Counties.
 
Grace lives in Blasdell with her two daughters and travels to Chautauqua County several times each month. Our Literacy Committee is exploring a potential Literacy Project collaboration with the organization.
 
WIC is a free program for Pregnant women; breastfeeding moms until the infant turns 1 year old; new moms until the infant turns 6 months old; and infants and children up to age 5.
 
A foster parent or any caregiver can sign a child up for WIC. To receive benefits, you must reside in NY State AND meet certain income guidelines. If you receive Medicaid, SNAP or TANF you automatically qualify.
 
WIC provides Nutrition Education that will help the recipient create healthy, affordable meals and receive professional advice for any nutrition concerns. WIC also provides Breastfeeding Support from International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants, free breast pumps and encouragement from peer counselors.
 
Participants can purchase healthy foods with eWIC cards that can be used at many local stores as well as Farmer’s Market checks to get fresh fruits and vegetables. WIC also provides numerous referral services to the participant and their family.
 
 
Left to right, Rotary Literacy Chairman Diana Meckley, Grace McKenzie WIC Coordinator and Kevin Sixbey, President of the Rotary Club of Jamestown.