The Andrew County Health Department Receives $397,105 Grant to Reach More Families Through Innovative WIC Outreach Efforts
May 20, 2023
A colorful sign that says wic women infants and children

Savannah, Missouri, May 19, 2023 — The Andrew County Health Department has been awarded a $397,105.00 grant to implement a WIC Community Innovation and Outreach Project (WIC CIAO). WIC CIAO is supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service and aims to support efforts to develop, implement, and evaluate innovative outreach strategies to increase awareness, participation, and benefit redemption in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and reduce disparities in program delivery.

“Too many women and children in Missouri are missing out on the nutrition they need in order to thrive,” said Jayne White, Director of Clinical & Emergency Operations, Andrew County Health Department. “We are proud to be part of this critical initiative to identify new ways of connecting people to WIC.”

The Andrew County Health Department was selected through a highly competitive grant process. Andrew county Health Department's project aims to strengthen WIC outreach, enrollment, and retention within rural Andrew County as well as neighboring areas of Northwest Missouri. Their project will expand partnerships and use census data to target outreach where there is likely a higher proportion of eligible WIC families in the county. Andrew County Health Department will use participant and community feedback to inform their outreach strategies and the development of a Peer-to-Peer feedback referral program, targeted digital marketing campaign, and program development and branding of Mothering Mondays and Walk-in Wednesdays. Lessons learned from the project will have scalability considerations for rual areas across America especially in reaching under served populations.

In Missouri, WIC provides healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding counseling and referrals for 87,061 participants, including 14,159 pregnant and postpartum individuals, 23,065 infants up to 12 months, and 42,485 children up to age 5.

In 2020, only 50 percent of all eligible individuals nationwide participated in WIC, equating to a shortfall of almost 6 million individuals. The WIC CIAO Project aims to change that by expanding partnerships with community organizations and using community-level data to develop and implement innovative WIC outreach efforts.

Reaching more families with WIC will have positive impacts on the community. WIC has been shown to provide wide-ranging benefits, including longer, safer pregnancies, with fewer premature births and infant deaths; improved dietary outcomes for infants and children; improved maternal health; and improved performance at school, among others. In addition to health benefits, WIC participants showed significant savings in health care costs when compared to non-participants.

In total, there are 36 WIC CIAO awardees made up of WIC state and local agencies, including tribal nations, and nonprofit entities and organizations.

WIC CIAO is administered through a USDA cooperative agreement with the Food Research & Action Center, in partnership with the Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition , the Native American Agriculture Fund , and UnidosUS. WIC CIAO is part of USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service broader initiative to modernize WIC.

Visit hellowic.org to find out more about the WIC CIAO Project and awardees, and sign up for updates on WIC CIAO events and announcements.

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Your Ultimate Guide to WIC Services in Andrew County: Everything You Need to Know

April 30, 2025
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is a vital resource designed to improve the health and nutrition of pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. The Andrew County Health Department proudly offers WIC services to ensure families have access to essential nutrition, education, and support. Here’s everything you need to know about the program, its benefits, and how to apply.  What is the WIC Program? WIC is a federally funded program that provides nutritional support to eligible families. Its goal is to improve the health outcomes of women, infants, and children by offering resources to promote healthy eating, breastfeeding, and overall well-being. Who is Eligible for WIC? You may qualify for WIC services in Andrew County if you meet the following criteria: Pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding women Infants and children under the age of 5 Families who meet income guidelines (based on household size and income level) Even working families may qualify, so it’s worth exploring eligibility if you’re unsure. Benefits of the WIC Program WIC offers a variety of valuable benefits, including: Nutritious Foods: Participants receive benefits for purchasing healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, milk, eggs, and baby formula. Nutrition Education: Personalized guidance on healthy eating, meal planning, and dietary habits for both mothers and young children. Breastfeeding Support: Access to certified lactation consultants, breast pumps, and breastfeeding supplies to help mothers succeed in nursing their babies. Health Screenings and Referrals: Routine assessments to track your child’s growth and development. WIC can also connect families with additional healthcare and social services. Emotional and Peer Support: WIC offers peer counseling, support groups, and helpful resources to empower parents throughout their journey. How to Apply for WIC in Andrew County Applying for WIC is simple, and the Andrew County Health Department is here to guide you through the process. Follow these steps to get started: Contact the Andrew County Health Department: Call our office to schedule an appointment or inquire about program details. Gather Required Documents: Bring proof of income, proof of residency (such as a utility bill), and identification for all household members applying for benefits. Attend Your Appointment: During your visit, a WIC counselor will review your eligibility, discuss your family’s nutritional needs, and provide helpful resources. Receive Your Benefits: Once approved, you’ll receive WIC benefits on an eWIC card, which works like a debit card for purchasing eligible food items at approved retailers. Why Enroll in WIC? The WIC program is designed to give families the tools they need to create healthier futures. Whether you’re an expectant mother seeking prenatal support, a parent looking to improve your child’s nutrition, or someone in need of breastfeeding guidance, WIC can provide invaluable assistance. Get Started Today The Andrew County Health Department is dedicated to ensuring all eligible families have access to these essential resources. For more information about the WIC program, eligibility requirements, or to schedule an appointment, visit Andrew County Health Department or contact our office directly. Empowering families with healthy choices starts with knowledge and support. Don’t wait — discover how WIC can benefit you and your loved ones today!

Free or Low-Cost Health Screenings Available in Andrew County

April 23, 2025
Taking charge of your health doesn’t have to be expensive. The Andrew County Health Department is dedicated to ensuring that all residents have access to essential health screenings, regardless of financial circumstances. Routine screenings are crucial for early detection and prevention of serious health conditions. By participating in these services, you can take proactive steps toward a healthier future. Why Are Health Screenings Important? Health screenings are designed to identify potential health issues before symptoms appear. Early detection allows for more effective treatment, improved outcomes, and often lower healthcare costs. Regular screenings are especially important for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, which may not show symptoms in the early stages.  Available Free or Low-Cost Screenings in Andrew County The Andrew County Health Department offers a variety of free or low-cost screenings to meet the needs of our community. Services include: Blood Pressure Screenings: High blood pressure is a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Regular checks can help you stay informed about your cardiovascular health. STD and HIV Testing: Confidential and affordable testing is available to protect your sexual health. Early detection and treatment are key to managing these conditions. Vision and Hearing Screenings: Early identification of vision or hearing problems can significantly improve quality of life, especially for children and older adults. Immunization and Vaccination Services: Preventive vaccines are available to protect against flu, HPV, hepatitis, and other illnesses that pose serious risks to your health. Who Should Get Screened? Certain factors such as age, family history, and lifestyle can influence when and how often you should get screened. Here are some general recommendations: Adults 18 and older should have regular blood pressure checks. Individuals over 45 may benefit from cholesterol and diabetes screenings. Sexually active individuals should consider routine STD testing. Women over 40 are encouraged to schedule annual mammograms. If you're unsure which screenings are right for you, our healthcare team can provide personalized guidance based on your health history and risk factors. How to Access Health Screenings in Andrew County Participating in these screenings is simple: Visit the Andrew County Health Department website or contact our office to learn about upcoming screening events. Schedule an appointment for services available year-round. Ask about eligibility requirements for free or reduced-cost screenings — many programs are designed to support uninsured or underinsured residents. Invest in Your Health Today Early detection saves lives. By taking advantage of free or low-cost screenings available in Andrew County, you’re investing in your future health and well-being. For more information or to schedule a screening, visit Andrew County Health Department or contact our office directly. Together, we can build a healthier, stronger community.

How to Keep Your Family Safe from Common Environmental Health Risks in Andrew County

April 16, 2025
Environmental health risks can impact our well-being in ways we may not always see. From the water we drink to the air we breathe, everyday hazards can pose potential risks if not managed properly. The Andrew County Health Department is committed to helping residents understand these risks and adopt practical steps to create a healthier home environment. Here are key areas to focus on to keep your family safe.  1. Ensuring Safe Drinking Water Clean, safe drinking water is essential to good health. Contaminated water can carry harmful bacteria, chemicals, or heavy metals. To protect your household: Test your well water annually for bacteria, nitrates, and other contaminants. Be mindful of potential water sources near agricultural areas or industrial sites that could affect water quality. If your home is connected to a public water system, review the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) for information on your local water quality. Use certified water filters if you have concerns about contaminants in your home’s water supply. The Andrew County Health Department provides guidance on water testing and can recommend certified testing services. 2. Safe Pest Control Practices Pests such as mosquitoes, rodents, and ticks can spread diseases like Lyme disease and West Nile virus. Here’s how to reduce pest risks safely: Seal cracks, gaps, and other entry points around your home to prevent pests from getting inside. Use natural pest control methods when possible, such as traps or non-toxic repellents. If pesticides are necessary, follow product labels carefully and keep chemicals out of reach of children and pets. Regularly clear standing water around your yard to reduce mosquito breeding grounds. Our department offers educational resources on safe pest control methods to help protect your family and pets from harmful exposures. 3. Reducing Exposure to Harmful Chemicals Household cleaners, lawn products, and other chemicals can pose risks if used improperly. To minimize exposure: Store chemicals in their original containers, clearly labeled, and out of reach of children. Follow instructions carefully when using cleaning supplies, pesticides, or fertilizers. Improve indoor air quality by ventilating your home when using products that emit fumes. Consider switching to environmentally friendly cleaning products that are less toxic. 4. Managing Mold and Indoor Air Quality Poor indoor air quality can worsen allergies and respiratory issues. To keep your home safe: Regularly inspect your home for leaks and repair them quickly to prevent mold growth. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements to control moisture levels. Clean and replace air filters in your HVAC system regularly to improve airflow and remove airborne pollutants. 5. Proper Waste Disposal and Recycling Improper disposal of hazardous materials can harm both the environment and your family. Follow these tips for safer waste management: Dispose of expired medications through approved drug take-back programs. Follow local guidelines for disposing of paint, oil, batteries, and other hazardous materials. Recycle responsibly to reduce landfill waste and protect the environment. Local Resources for Environmental Health Support The Andrew County Health Department offers educational resources, testing services, and community programs to help families reduce environmental risks. We work closely with local organizations to ensure residents have access to clean water, safe food practices, and healthy home solutions. For more information on protecting your family from environmental health risks or to access local services, visit Andrew County Health Department or contact our office directly. By staying informed and taking simple precautions, you can create a safer, healthier environment for your family and community.