How the WIC Program Supports Families in Andrew County
April 14, 2025

Raising a healthy family comes with a lot of responsibilities, and making sure children have access to nutritious food is one of the most important. For many families in Andrew County, the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program provides critical support during some of the earliest and most important stages of life.


The WIC program is designed to help eligible families access healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to healthcare and other community services. At the Andrew County Health Department in Savannah, Missouri, the WIC team works closely with families to provide resources that promote better health for mothers, babies, and young children.


This blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Families are encouraged to speak directly with their healthcare providers or WIC counselors to understand how the program can best support their individual needs.


Understanding What the WIC Program Offers

The WIC program serves pregnant women, postpartum women, infants, and children up to the age of five. It is based on the idea that giving families access to healthy food and support services during critical growth periods can have a lifelong impact on health and well-being.

In Andrew County, the WIC program offers support through:


  • Access to healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, milk, cheese, whole grains, and infant formula for eligible participants

  • Nutrition education focused on helping families make balanced food choices, meal plan on a budget, and support overall wellness

  • Breastfeeding support, including access to breastfeeding counselors, educational materials, and resources like breast pump rentals or donations

  • Referrals to healthcare providers, immunization services, and other public health programs that may benefit families

The services provided through the WIC program are aimed at strengthening the foundation for healthy growth and development but are not intended to replace regular medical care. Families participating in WIC should continue to attend regular appointments with pediatricians, obstetricians, and other healthcare providers.


Who is Eligible for WIC in Andrew County

Eligibility for the WIC program is determined based on several factors, including residency, income, and nutritional risk. Applicants generally must:


  • Live in Missouri

  • Meet specific income guidelines

  • Be determined by a health professional to have a nutritional risk factor, such as low birth weight, poor growth patterns, or conditions like anemia

The team at Andrew County Health Department helps guide families through the application and certification steps. Participation in WIC is confidential, and staff are available to answer questions and provide support at every stage.


Why Nutrition Matters During Pregnancy and Early Childhood

Nutrition plays an essential role in every stage of life, but it is especially critical during pregnancy, infancy, and early childhood. During these periods, bodies are growing and developing rapidly, and they require a wide range of nutrients to support healthy bones, organs, and brain development.


When mothers have access to nutritious food during pregnancy, it can help support a healthier pregnancy and potentially lead to better outcomes for both mother and baby. Similarly, ensuring that infants and young children have consistent access to fruits, vegetables, protein, dairy, and whole grains can set the stage for healthier habits later in life.


The WIC program is structured around this understanding. By providing supplemental foods and nutrition education, WIC aims to make it easier for families to build healthy habits from the very beginning.


The Role of Breastfeeding Support in the WIC Program

Breastfeeding can offer significant health benefits for both babies and mothers. However, breastfeeding is not always easy, especially for first-time mothers who may have questions or face challenges early on.


That is why breastfeeding support is an important part of the WIC program in Andrew County. Mothers participating in WIC have access to:


  • Breastfeeding counselors who provide education and encouragement

  • Informational resources to help navigate early breastfeeding challenges

  • Breast pumps and other breastfeeding equipment as needed

Mothers who are considering breastfeeding or who are looking for additional support are encouraged to reach out to the Andrew County Health Department’s WIC office. Whether a mother chooses to breastfeed, formula feed, or do a combination of both, WIC staff are there to support her decision and provide helpful resources along the way.


Nutrition Education Through WIC

One of the most valuable parts of participating in the WIC program is access to practical nutrition education. Families participating in WIC learn about:


  • Choosing affordable and nutritious foods

  • Reading food labels to understand ingredients and serving sizes

  • Meal planning for busy families

  • Incorporating fruits and vegetables into everyday meals

  • The importance of portion control and balanced eating

These lessons are designed to be easy to understand and apply in everyday life. Counselors work with families to set realistic goals that fit each household’s needs and schedules.


WIC Benefits in Everyday Life

For many families in Savannah and throughout Andrew County, the WIC program is a reliable resource that helps stretch the household food budget while ensuring that children have access to important nutrients.


Having healthy foods readily available at home can reduce stress around mealtime, encourage better eating habits, and promote positive family routines. These benefits can ripple outward, supporting academic readiness, emotional health, and overall well-being.


It is important to remember, however, that participating in WIC is just one part of a larger picture of family health. WIC works best when it is combined with regular healthcare visits, community support, and attention to all aspects of physical, emotional, and mental wellness.


Referrals and Community Connections

Another important way WIC supports families is by connecting them to additional resources in Andrew County. During WIC visits, staff may provide referrals for:


  • Pediatric care

  • Prenatal and postpartum healthcare

  • Immunization services

  • Oral health programs

  • Early childhood education programs

  • Mental health support services

This network of support can help families address a wide range of needs beyond nutrition alone.


A Focus on Respect and Support

Participating in a public health program can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for families navigating financial or personal challenges. At Andrew County Health Department, the WIC team is committed to creating a welcoming environment where every family feels respected and supported.


WIC is designed to help, not judge. Staff work with families from all backgrounds and treat every participant with dignity. Whether you are a first-time parent, a grandparent raising grandchildren, or someone trying to balance work, school, and family responsibilities, WIC counselors are here to listen and offer practical assistance.


How to Apply for WIC in Andrew County

Families interested in applying for WIC benefits in Savannah or anywhere in Andrew County can contact the Andrew County Health Department to get started. Staff members can help with:


  • Explaining eligibility requirements

  • Assisting with application paperwork

  • Scheduling certification appointments

  • Answering questions about program benefits and services

By reaching out to the local WIC office, families can take the first step toward accessing valuable nutrition support and resources.


Final Thoughts

Supporting the health of young children and families starts with access to good nutrition. The WIC program plays a vital role in helping families in Andrew County get the resources they need during critical growth periods.


The Andrew County Health Department is proud to offer WIC program services for local families. However, it is important to remember that WIC participation is just one piece of the health puzzle. For medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, always consult with a licensed healthcare provider.

For more information about WIC benefits in Savannah MO, or to schedule an appointment, contact the Andrew County Health Department today. We are here to support your family’s journey toward better health.

What to Know About Immunizations for Children and Adults

June 24, 2025
Vaccines are an important part of public health, but many people still have questions about what is available and when certain shots are needed. Whether you're a parent preparing for school enrollment or an adult wanting to stay on top of your health, understanding local immunization options can help you make informed decisions. At the Andrew County Health Department, we provide a variety of immunizations for residents of all ages. These services are designed to make it easier for families and individuals to stay up to date with recommended vaccines. What Vaccines Are Offered? The department offers immunizations for both children and adults. These may include vaccines that are required for school, as well as those that are recommended seasonally or for specific age groups. Some examples include: Childhood vaccines such as DTaP, MMR, polio, and varicella Teen and adult vaccines including Tdap, meningitis, and HPV Seasonal vaccines such as influenza (flu) and COVID-19 Other vaccines based on CDC guidelines and local availability To see which vaccines are currently being offered, or to find out if you are eligible for a specific shot, it's best to contact the department directly. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged to help reduce wait times. Who Can Receive Vaccines? Immunizations are available to all residents of Andrew County. The health department works with the Missouri Department of Health and other programs to offer vaccines for children and adults, sometimes at reduced or no cost depending on the situation. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may still be able to receive certain vaccines through federal programs like the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Children entering school or daycare often need to show proof of certain vaccines. The health department can help guide families through what is required and when booster shots may be needed. Adults may also benefit from updated vaccines, especially if they are in contact with young children, have certain health conditions, or simply have not received boosters in several years. What to Expect During Your Visit Vaccines are given by trained staff in a clean and safe environment. During your visit, you may be asked to provide some background health information, especially if you are receiving multiple vaccines at once. If you have a vaccination record, it’s a good idea to bring it with you. This helps the nurse know what you’ve already received and what might still be recommended based on your age or medical history. For children, the health department staff is familiar with working with all age groups and does their best to make the process as comfortable as possible. Why Vaccinations Matter While everyone’s health needs are different, vaccines are one tool that public health agencies use to help reduce the risk of certain illnesses in the community. Keeping up with recommended vaccines may help protect not just yourself, but also those around you. It’s important to note that immunization decisions should always be discussed with your healthcare provider. The information provided by the health department is intended to help you make educated choices and stay informed about what is available in your area. How to Learn More If you are unsure whether you or your child needs a vaccine, or if you want to ask questions before scheduling an appointment, the Andrew County Health Department is available to assist. You can visit the Nurses Corner section on their website or call the office during business hours to speak with a team member. The office is located at 106 N. 5th Street in Savannah and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This blog is intended for educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. For personal medical concerns, please speak with your licensed healthcare provider.

What Services Does Your Local Health Department Provide?

June 18, 2025
If you’ve ever wondered what your local health department actually does, you’re not alone. Many people think public health services are only about shots and restaurant inspections, but there’s a lot more happening behind the scenes. At the Andrew County Health Department, we offer a variety of services to support the health and safety of our community. Whether you’re starting a family, planning for school vaccinations, working in food service, or just want to better understand your health, there’s probably a service here that applies to your life. Immunizations for All Ages One of the most well-known services we provide is immunization. From childhood vaccines to adult boosters, our team can help you stay up to date. This includes routine school-required vaccines, flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines, and travel-related immunizations. Some vaccines may be available at a reduced cost or through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program for those who qualify. If you have questions about which immunizations are available or whether you’re eligible for assistance, our team is here to help. Preventive Screenings We also offer several health screenings. These services are not for diagnosis, but they can help identify changes in your health that you may want to bring to your healthcare provider. Examples of screenings we offer include: Blood pressure Cholesterol Blood sugar Vision and hearing HIV and certain STIs Tuberculosis Screenings are confidential, and our staff works with care to ensure you feel comfortable throughout the process. WIC Nutrition Support If you’re pregnant, have recently had a baby, or are caring for a child under age five, you may be eligible for the WIC program. WIC stands for Women, Infants, and Children. It provides nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and supplemental food packages at no cost to families who qualify. Our WIC staff can also help connect you with other health resources and make sure you are getting the support you need. Eligibility is based on income and other factors, and you do not have to be on Medicaid to qualify. Environmental Health & Food Safety Public health isn’t just about personal wellness. We also help protect the broader community through environmental health programs. This includes inspecting restaurants, child care centers, and other food establishments. We check for cleanliness, food handling procedures, and compliance with state health regulations. Our team also helps review food plans for new businesses and provides training to food handlers. If you operate or plan to open a food-related business in Andrew County, we can walk you through the safety steps you’ll need to follow. Need a certified copy of a birth or death certificate? We can help with that too. You can request these records by mail or in person at our office in Savannah. Requirements vary slightly depending on the document, so it’s a good idea to review the process online before visiting. Child Care Consultation If you run a child care facility or work with children, we offer consultation services that can help improve the health and safety of your program. These services include guidance on nutrition, wellness practices, breastfeeding, tobacco prevention, and other child-focused health priorities. We support providers with tools and resources that meet state guidelines and help foster a safe environment for children in care. Emergency Preparedness Resources Public health also plays a key role during emergencies. We provide educational materials and planning guides for everything from tornadoes to power outages and infectious disease outbreaks. While we can’t prevent every disaster, having a plan in place can make a big difference in how your household handles it. You’ll find checklists, contact info, and more in the Emergency Preparedness section of our site. The Andrew County Health Department is here to serve the community with education, preventive resources, and public health protections. If you’re unsure about whether we offer something or need help finding a service, we encourage you to reach out directly or explore the different areas of our website. We’re located in Savannah and open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This blog is for educational purposes only and does not offer medical advice. For specific health concerns or decisions, please consult a licensed healthcare provider.

Understanding the Importance of Routine Health Screenings

June 5, 2025
When was the last time you had a health screening? If you’re like many people, it might have been a while. Life gets busy, and unless something feels wrong, it’s easy to put routine checkups on the back burner. But screenings are one way to stay informed about your health before any symptoms appear. At the Andrew County Health Department, we provide a range of screenings to help community members stay aware of potential health risks. While we don’t diagnose or treat conditions, we do offer testing and education that can help you follow up with your provider if needed. What Is a Routine Screening? A routine screening is a simple test that checks for common health conditions. These are not meant to confirm a diagnosis, but instead to detect early signs of issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or elevated blood sugar. Catching these signs early may help you decide when to talk to your primary care provider or seek further care. Screenings can also include checks for vision and hearing, as well as testing for infections such as HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These types of screenings are confidential and handled with care by trained professionals. What Screenings Are Available? At our department, we offer several screenings as part of our public health services. While availability may vary, some of the screenings typically offered include: Blood pressure checks Cholesterol testing Blood sugar testing Vision and hearing screening HIV and STI testing Tuberculosis (TB) testing These services are designed to help you stay informed about possible health changes. If any result indicates the need for further attention, we can provide a referral to a healthcare provider or specialist in your area. Why Are Screenings Important? Health screenings can serve as a first step in learning more about what’s going on inside your body. Sometimes, common conditions do not cause noticeable symptoms at first. Screenings may detect changes before you feel anything unusual, which is why they are often recommended on a regular basis. Again, these screenings are not diagnostic. They don’t replace a visit to your doctor or confirm any medical condition. But they may give you helpful information to bring with you to a healthcare visit. Who Can Use These Services? Our screening services are available to all Andrew County residents, and many are provided at little or no cost. You do not always need to have health insurance to receive a screening. We aim to make these services as accessible as possible so that everyone has the opportunity to learn more about their health. Whether you are looking to get a checkup for peace of mind or you were recently advised to monitor certain health factors, we’re here to support you with clear information and useful tools.