WIC helps bridge nutrition gap in Mesa County

In honor of National Nutrition Month, Mesa County Public Health (MCPH) is highlighting the important role nutrition plays in overall health. Our Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC, helps families access the foods they need to thrive. They connect families with healthy foods, nutrition education, and resources that support strong starts for children.

“Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or out of reach,” said Karla Klemm, WIC Manager. “Through WIC, we help families build practical nutrition habits and ensure children and families have access to foods that support growth, development, and long-term health.”

Help with healthy groceries

WIC is a free program for children up to age five, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women. Our team works with local families to provide free, healthy foods, like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, cereal, milk, and cheese. In 2025, we served about 3,100 families in Mesa County each month. The average amount of food families receive is approximately $79-121 per month in WIC food packages. Our team can also help families with budget-friendly eating tips and strategies on how to stretch their food dollars.

“Feeding kids is hard work, and rising food prices make it challenging. WIC is here to ensure that every caregiver in Mesa County has the support they need to provide the best for their children. We’re proud to help families secure one of life’s most basic necessities-nutritious food,” said Klemm.

Breastfeeding support

WIC also provides breastfeeding support to families across Mesa County. Through WIC, families receive breastfeeding education, counseling, and access to trained staff who help parents overcome common challenges. In 2025, our team issued 50 single use and hand pumps to working moms. Research shows that breastfeeding can help babies build a strong immune system and lower their risk of certain diseases. It also lowers the mom’s risk for postpartum depression, as well as certain types of cancer.

How to get started 

Connect with our team to see if your family qualifies for WIC and to sign up for the program. Visit our website or call us at 970-248-6900.