Montana WIC Benefits for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This page is built for Montana single moms who need fast, accurate answers. Everything here links to official state or federal sources and reflects Montana’s 2025 rules and amounts.

Quick help box

• Apply right now online to be contacted: Start at Montana WIC “START HERE” (click “START HERE”). Or call the statewide WIC line 1‑800‑433‑4298. (dphhs.mt.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• If you already get Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, Free/Reduced School Meals, or the traditional Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship, you’re already income‑eligible for WIC. You still need a WIC appointment. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• 2025 WIC income limits (48 states, incl. MT), effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026: for a family of 3, gross monthly income at or below $4,109\ast \ast (annual\ast \ast$49,303). Full table below. (fns.usda.gov)
• Monthly fruits/vegetables cash value (CVB) through Sept 30, 2025: children $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, mostly/fully breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)
• Summer farmers’ market benefit (eFMNP) in participating areas: $30 per eligible person for local produce (June–Oct; details below). (dphhs.mt.gov, missoulapublichealth.org)
• Find a clinic near you or book: signupwic.com (Montana) or call your local office (key numbers listed below). (dphhs.mt.gov)

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What you can get with Montana WIC in 2025 (plain language)

• Healthy foods each month on a Montana eWIC card you use like a debit card.
• Extra cash value for fruits and vegetables (CVB) every month.
• Breastfeeding help and breast pumps if needed.
• Nutrition check‑ins and tips for feeding infants and toddlers.
• Connections to other help (health care, childcare support, housing, etc.).

Montana WIC runs more than 80 clinic sites statewide and serves about 13,200 women, infants, and children. If you’re eligible, the goal is to get your benefits loaded as quickly as your clinic can complete your first appointment. (dphhs.mt.gov)

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Start here: how to apply today (fastest path)

1. Call your local WIC office and grab the next appointment (phone or in‑person). If you don’t know your local office:

• Statewide line: 1‑800‑433‑4298; email montanawicprogram@mt.gov; or use the Montana WIC clinic finder/booking page. (fns.usda.gov)

2. If you receive Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, Free/Reduced Meals, or the traditional Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship, tell them during scheduling—this speeds up income verification. (dphhs.mt.gov)
3. Gather documents (see checklist below).
4. Attend your appointment (many clinics can do phone first visits). You’ll complete a short health/nutrition screening for you/your child and review benefits. Missoula notes most WIC benefit check‑ins happen every three months. (missoulapublichealth.org)
5. Get your eWIC card and start shopping same day or as soon as benefits are loaded.

Typical timelines

• Scheduling: often within a few days to 1–2 weeks depending on county demand.
• Benefits: usually active at or soon after the first appointment once eligibility is confirmed.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you hit a long wait, ask for a phone appointment or a cancellation slot. If phones are busy, try the statewide line 1‑800‑433‑4298 and ask for help getting scheduled. You can also dial 211 to get connected to the nearest clinic and other local food resources while you wait. (montana211.org)

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Who qualifies for Montana WIC (and for how long)

To qualify you must:

• Live in Montana.
• Be in a covered group: pregnant, postpartum (up to 6 months), breastfeeding (up to baby’s 1st birthday), infants, or children under age 5. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Meet income rules (below) or be “adjunctively eligible” because you already receive Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, Free/Reduced Meals, or the traditional Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship. You still need a WIC appointment. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Be assessed as having a nutrition need (the clinic screens for this—it’s part of every WIC intake). (fns.usda.gov)

Quick table: who’s covered and for how long

Source: Montana WIC Eligibility page. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you’re just over income, ask your clinic to review income documentation options (weekly vs. monthly pay, recent job changes, zero‑income statements). If your child or you have a medical or feeding concern, mention it—nutrition risk is part of eligibility. If you were denied, ask about when to reapply (e.g., after a job or household change). (content.govdelivery.com)

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2025 Montana WIC income limits (effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026)

WIC uses 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for the 48 states (includes Montana). You can qualify based on gross income OR through adjunct programs listed above.

Income eligibility table (gross income)

Source: USDA WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines, Effective 7/1/2025–6/30/2026. (fns.usda.gov)

Reality check

• If your income changes month‑to‑month, bring the last 30 days of pay stubs and ask the clinic how best to count it. If you get SNAP/Medicaid/TANF/Best Beginnings, bring proof—that makes you income‑eligible without further calculations. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your income is slightly over, ask about re‑checking next month, or whether a different pay schedule view (weekly vs. monthly) could reflect your current situation more accurately (staff follow state plan policy—ask them to walk you through it). (content.govdelivery.com)

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What’s in the Montana WIC food package (and the 2025 amounts that matter)

Key money amounts (FY 2025, Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025):

• Children (1–4): $26/month fruits & veggies (CVB)
• Pregnant & postpartum: $47/month CVB
• Mostly/fully breastfeeding: $52/month CVB
• Juice substitution amount for children/adults: $3 equivalent (64 fl oz) if you choose juice instead of CVB (ask clinic before substituting)
• Infant jarred fruit/veg CVB substitutions (if used): half substitution $11\ast \ast ,fullsubstitution\ast \ast$22 per month for 6–11 months (when applicable)

All other foods (milk, yogurt, whole grains, eggs, peanut butter/beans, canned fish for fully breastfeeding, infant foods, formula if needed) follow the USDA’s 2024 final rule and Montana’s approved food list. (fns.usda.gov)

Table: Monthly fruits & vegetables cash value (CVB), FY 2025

Source: USDA WIC FY 2025 CVB memo. (fns.usda.gov)

What foods are allowed in Montana (brands/types)

Montana publishes a 2025 Approved Food List (what brands/sizes you can buy). Always check your benefits and the food list before shopping, or scan items with the WICShopper app.

• See Montana’s current 2025 Approved Food List (PDF): Montana WIC Approved Food List (Jan 1, 2025). (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Download and use the WICShopper app (free) to scan items, check benefits, and locate offices. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If a food won’t scan at checkout, ask the cashier for a mid‑transaction printout and compare to your food list/benefit balance. If the item should be allowed, use the WICShopper “I couldn’t buy this” feature and keep your receipt; then call your clinic. (dphhs.mt.gov)

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Farmers’ markets: extra summer dollars (eFMNP)

Montana’s WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program is now electronic (eFMNP). In 2025 it provides 30 per eligible person** to spend on local fruits and veggies at authorized farm stands/markets in participating areas (e.g., Gallatin, Lewis & Clark, Cascade, Flathead, RiverStone/Yellowstone, Missoula, Big Horn, Park). Benefits run during the summer/early fall market season. Missoula lists June 1–Oct 31, 2025 for spending. Amounts are per person—so a mom with two WIC‑eligible kids could receive **90. Ask your clinic if your county participates and how to enroll. (dphhs.mt.gov, missoulapublichealth.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your county isn’t on eFMNP this year, ask your clinic about other produce promotions, Double Up Food Bucks (for SNAP households), or local food bank produce days via 211 while you wait for next season. (montana211.org)

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Using your eWIC card without headaches

• You’ll get a Montana eWIC card. Set your PIN, check your balance, and keep the card safe.
• Use the WICShopper app to view your benefits and scan barcodes before you get to the register. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Shop at approved stores. There’s a live statewide map and a store list. (flatheadcounty.gov)

Helpful links:

• Approved store map: Statewide WIC‑approved stores map (ArcGIS) and approved retailer list. (flatheadcounty.gov)
• Food list: Montana WIC Approved Food List (2025). (dphhs.mt.gov)
• If your card locks or is lost, call the number on the back of your card or contact your clinic. (Many states use MyBNFT.com or the WICShopper app for balances; Montana promotes the WICShopper app.) (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If a purchase fails, keep the receipt and immediately call your clinic. If stores in your area are unfamiliar with WIC items, go to another approved store from the statewide map and notify your clinic of the issue. (flatheadcounty.gov)

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Infant formula in Montana WIC (brand contract)

As of September 2025, Montana’s WIC contract is with Abbott (Similac). The state reported in late 2024 that standard issuance formulas would remain Similac products (Advance, Sensitive, Total Comfort, and Soy Isomil). Always follow what’s printed on your WIC benefits and ask your clinic if your baby needs a different formula. (content.govdelivery.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If stores are out of your baby’s formula, contact your clinic the same day to ask about brand/size substitutions allowed under your benefits or a temporary change if medically appropriate. Keep receipts and do not buy non‑WIC sizes without checking—WIC cannot reimburse out‑of‑benefit purchases.

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Real‑world examples (so you can size up your situation)

• Example A: Mom with two kids (3 yrs and 1 yr), no other benefits. Household of 3 can qualify up to $4,109/month\ast \ast grossunder2025guidelines.Ifapproved,monthlyCVBcouldbe\ast \ast$26 per child = $52\ast \ast forproduce,plusotherfoods(milk,cereal,eggs,wholegrains,etc.).Ifmostly/fullybreastfeedingthe1‑year‑old,mom’sCVBwouldbe\ast \ast$52 instead of a postpartum $47. (fns.usda.gov)
• Example B: Pregnant mom with one 4‑year‑old, on Montana Medicaid. She’s automatically income‑eligible for WIC; she still needs the WIC appointment. Mom receives $47\ast \ast CVBandherchild\ast \ast$26 CVB monthly during FY 2025, plus the rest of the food package items. (dphhs.mt.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Example C: Mom and baby in a county offering eFMNP. Mom + child each get $30\ast \ast (total\ast \ast$60) to spend at authorized farm stands/markets during the season. (dphhs.mt.gov)

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Table: step‑by‑step application and realistic timeline

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your schedule is tight, tell them—many clinics can do phone enrollments and set a brief in‑office visit later for measurements. If transport is the issue, ask the clinic about remote options and local ride help via 211. (missoulapublichealth.org, montana211.org)

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Common mistakes to avoid (what actually trips people up)

• Showing up without proof of address or ID. Bring anything with your current Montana street address (utility bill, lease, bank statement).
• Not mentioning you’re on Medicaid/SNAP/TANF/Best Beginnings/Free‑Reduced Meals. That can save time on income checks. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Waiting to set a PIN or check your eWIC balance. Do this before your first shopping trip using WICShopper. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Buying items not on Montana’s 2025 approved list. Check the 2025 Food List PDF or scan with the app. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Forgetting to use your CVB each month. WIC benefits do not roll over—use WIC first when you pay.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Keep all receipts and take photos of shelf tags if an allowed item didn’t work; report through the app and call your clinic. (dphhs.mt.gov)

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Diverse communities: tailored tips and resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: WIC serves all parents/caregivers of young children. If you have a nontraditional household or use a chosen name, let staff know how to address you. Ask your clinic for inclusive lactation support resources and privacy preferences.
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for reasonable accommodations (longer appointments, accessible rooms, interpreters) and referrals to Early Intervention and MT home visiting as needed. Dial 211 to locate disability‑specific supports in your county. (montana211.org)
• Veteran single mothers: You can use WIC and VA health care together. Ask your clinic for local referrals to VA maternity care coordinators and food pantries serving veterans via 211. (montana211.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many immigrant families qualify. WIC does not ask about citizenship. Bring any ID you have and proof of where you live now. If language is a barrier, ask for interpreter services—see Language Assistance on the MT WIC site (Language Assistance link at bottom). (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: WIC serves families on Montana reservations through local clinics and tribal partners. Use the state line 1‑800‑433‑4298 or the clinic finder to connect. Ask your clinic about local peer breastfeeding groups and market benefits near you. (fns.usda.gov)
• Rural moms with limited stores: Use the statewide WIC retailer map to find the nearest authorized grocer and call ahead to ask about stock. If choices are limited, ask your clinic to tailor your package (e.g., more shelf‑stable options). (flatheadcounty.gov)
• Single fathers and kin caregivers: Dads, grandparents, foster parents, and guardians can get WIC benefits for eligible children under 5—bring proof that the child is in your care. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Language access: Tell the clinic your preferred language—free interpreter services are available. Use WICShopper’s language options for quick shopping help. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you’re not getting the accommodation or interpreter you need, ask for the WIC director at your local agency, or contact the state WIC office by email (montanawicprogram@mt.gov) or phone 406‑444‑5533/1‑800‑433‑4298. (fns.usda.gov)

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Local office contacts (major population centers)

• Billings (RiverStone Health WIC): 406‑247‑3370 — RiverStone Health WIC. (riverstonehealth.org)
• Missoula Public Health WIC: 406‑258‑4740 — Missoula WIC info and hours. (missoulapublichealth.org)
• Great Falls (Cascade County): 406‑454‑6953 or 406‑868‑6897 — Cascade County Family Health Services (WIC). (cascadecountymt.gov)
• Kalispell (Flathead County): 406‑751‑8170 — Flathead County WIC page (store map links). (flatheadcounty.gov)
• Helena (Lewis & Clark County): 406‑457‑8912 — Lewis & Clark County WIC (clinic hours and satellite sites). (lccountymt.gov)
• Butte‑Silver Bow: 406‑497‑5060 — Butte‑Silver Bow WIC. (co.silverbow.mt.us)

Statewide MT WIC office: 1‑800‑433‑4298 | 406‑444‑5533 | montanawicprogram@mt.gov — USDA Montana WIC contact page. (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you can’t get through, leave a voicemail and email. Also dial 211 for help finding the closest clinic and other food resources while you wait. (montana211.org)

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Quick reference cheat sheet (tear‑off style)

• Apply/book: Montana WIC “START HERE” or call 1‑800‑433‑4298. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• 2025 income limit example (household of 3): $4,109/month gross. Full table above. (fns.usda.gov)
• 2025 fruits/veggies CVB: child $26\ast \ast ;pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47; mostly/fully breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)
• Farmers’ market (eFMNP): $30 per eligible person in participating counties (summer season). (dphhs.mt.gov)
• App you need: WICShopper (scan items, check balance, find clinics). (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Store help: Retailer map/list (links to state map and list). (flatheadcounty.gov)

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Application checklist (bring these)

• Photo ID (you/child).
• Proof of Montana address (recent utility bill, lease, bank statement, mail with your name).
• Proof of income (last 30 days pay stubs) OR proof you’re on Medicaid/SNAP/TANF/Free‑Reduced Meals/Best Beginnings.
• For baby/child: any immunization or growth records you have (helpful but not required to apply).
• A list of formulas/brands currently used (if any), plus any allergies/intolerances to discuss with staff.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you’re missing a document, keep your appointment. Clinics can often accept alternative proofs, or you may be able to submit follow‑up documents later. (dphhs.mt.gov)

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Tables you can reuse

Table: common Montana WIC actions and who to ask

Sources: State WIC contact; Food List; Retailer map; eFMNP announcement. (fns.usda.gov, dphhs.mt.gov, flatheadcounty.gov)

Table: where to get extra help while you wait

Sources: Montana 211; Montana Food Bank Network; MT 988. (montana211.org, mfbn.org, dphhs.mt.gov)

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FAQs (Montana‑specific)

1. Do I have to be on Medicaid or SNAP to get WIC?
   No. Many moms qualify by income alone. But if you receive Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, Free/Reduced Meals, or Best Beginnings (traditional), you are already income‑eligible—bring proof to save time. (dphhs.mt.gov)
2. Does WIC check immigration status?
   No. WIC does not ask about citizenship. Bring any ID you have and proof of address. (fns.usda.gov)
3. Can dads or grandparents sign up the kids?
   Yes. WIC benefits can be issued for children under 5 who are in your care. (dphhs.mt.gov)
4. How often are WIC benefits issued?
   Benefits load monthly. Many clinics schedule benefit check‑ins about every 3 months. (missoulapublichealth.org)
5. Can I use self‑checkout?
   Policies vary by store. If in doubt, use a staffed lane your first trips and keep receipts. If something fails, call your clinic.
6. My store is out of my item. What now?
   Use the app to find acceptable alternatives; check another approved store; or call your clinic. (flatheadcounty.gov)
7. I’m breastfeeding—what extra support does WIC offer?
   Breastfeeding support, pumps (if needed), and a larger food package for fully breastfeeding parents; talk to your clinic. (dphhs.mt.gov)
8. What’s the WIC farmers’ market benefit (eFMNP)?
   If your area participates, you may get $30 per person for local produce in the summer/early fall. Ask your clinic. (dphhs.mt.gov)
9. Which infant formula brands does Montana WIC offer?
   As of Sept 2025, Montana’s contract is with Abbott (Similac). Your specific formula type/size will be listed in your benefits. (content.govdelivery.com)
10. What exactly are the income limits right now?
    See the 2025 table above (effective 7/1/2025–6/30/2026). For a family of 4, it’s $4,957/month gross. (fns.usda.gov)

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Why this guide is better than what you’ll find in a quick Google skim

• It uses Montana‑specific pages for eligibility, contact, store maps, and official amounts for 2025—no guesswork.
• It includes the 2025 income table direct from USDA, not last year’s numbers.
• It adds Montana’s 2025 farmers’ market eBenefits, which many “top 10” pages miss.
• It links to the 2025 Montana Approved Food List and the WICShopper app info used by MT WIC.
• It gives real phone numbers for major counties and a Plan‑B path (Montana 211, state line) if you’re stuck. (fns.usda.gov, dphhs.mt.gov, riverstonehealth.org, missoulapublichealth.org, cascadecountymt.gov, flatheadcounty.gov, lccountymt.gov, co.silverbow.mt.us)

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Sources you can trust (dated and official)

• WIC income limits (2025–26): USDA WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines; PDF attachment shows full chart. Page/attachment dated Mar 27–28, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
• CVB amounts for FY 2025 (Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025): USDA Policy Memo #2024‑7. (fns.usda.gov)
• 2024 WIC food package rule & implementation Q&A (for context): FNS Food Package Final Rule Implementation and Food Package Q&As. (fns.usda.gov)
• Montana WIC program home, eligibility, and contact: MT WIC home and Eligibility, and USDA Montana WIC contact page. (dphhs.mt.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• WICShopper app in Montana: MT DPHHS news release (Jan 18, 2023). (dphhs.mt.gov)
• eFMNP/electronic farmers’ market benefits: MT DPHHS (June 5, 2025); Missoula WIC page notes 2025 season dates. (dphhs.mt.gov, missoulapublichealth.org)
• 2025 Approved Food List (Montana): PDF updated Jan 1, 2025. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Formula contract note (Similac): MT DPHHS WIC Weekly (Sept 20, 2024). (content.govdelivery.com)

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About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (WIC), USDA Food and Nutrition Service, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards: primary sources only, links tested and archived, and updates within 48 hours when verified changes occur. We maintain clear boundaries: we’re independent researchers, not government staff, and we can’t guarantee individual outcomes.

Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

Found an update or correction? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll respond within 48 hours.

See our full methodology and update policy: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy.

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Disclaimer

• Program details, dollar amounts, brand contracts, store participation, and farmers’ market availability can change mid‑year. Always confirm with your local WIC clinic or the Montana WIC state office before making decisions based on this guide.
• Health and feeding advice here is general. For medical decisions (including formula changes, allergies, or special diets), talk with your health care provider and your WIC nutritionist.
• Site security and privacy: we link only to official state/federal pages or established nonprofits. Never share your eWIC PIN with anyone; if your card is lost or compromised, call the number on the back immediately.
• This guide is informational and not legal advice or an official determination of eligibility.

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Extra: Three more useful tables

1) Quick eligibility snapshots (scan and go)

Sources: MT eligibility; USDA WIC eligibility page. (dphhs.mt.gov, fns.usda.gov)

2) Using WIC at the store

Sources: WICShopper release; Food List PDF. (dphhs.mt.gov)

3) Contact ladder if you get stuck

Sources: USDA MT WIC contact; Montana 211. (fns.usda.gov, montana211.org)

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Learn more:

1. WIC
2. Montana WIC | Food and Nutrition Service
3. Eligibility
4. WIC Policy Memorandum #2025-3: Publication of the 2025-2026 Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Income Eligibility Guidelines
5. WIC FY 2025 Cash-Value Voucher/Benefit Amounts | Food and Nutrition Service
6. WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program Going Digital
7. WIC – People – Missoula Public Health
8. Montana 211
9. Who Gets WIC and How to Apply | Food and Nutrition Service
10. WIC Weekly Newsletter: March 14th, 2025
11. Montana WIC Food List
12. WIC Shopper App Available to Help Families
13. WIC | Flathead County, MT
14. WIC Weekly Newsletter: September 20th, 2024
15. WIC
16. Women, Infants, + Children $WIC$ – RiverStone Health
17. Family Health Services | Cascade County, MT
18. Women, Infant & Children Supplemental Nutrition Program – Lewis & Clark County
19. WIC Program | City and County of Butte-Silver Bow, MT
20. Montana 211
21. Home – Montana Food Bank Network
22. Montana 988
23. WIC Income Eligibility Guidelines (2025-2026) | Food and Nutrition Service
24. WIC Policy Memo 2024-5: Implementing the Provisions of the Revisions in the WIC Food Packages Final Rule | Food and Nutrition Service

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