FORT RILEY, Kansas –
Healthy families are the foundation of mission readiness. That's why IACH proudly hosts the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program – a Riley County resource that provides nutrition support, breastfeeding assistance, and health education to military families who need it most.
For many service members and their families, the WIC program represents an untapped opportunity. Despite serving nearly 1,400 beneficiaries at Fort Riley, many more could benefit.
A common misconception is that military families earn "too much" to qualify.
“WIC does not include BAH in income calculations,” said Kaylyn Speth, Riley County WIC Program Supervisor. “An E-6 with six years of service could qualify for a family of four.”
But Speth estimates only half of eligible families participate nationally. “We want every qualified military family to utilize WIC—it’s not just food assistance, but a partnership for healthier futures,” she said.
The program's impact extends beyond food assistance. WIC's registered dietitians provide personalized nutrition counseling, helping families navigate everything from infant feeding to picky eaters. For breastfeeding mothers, the program offers invaluable support through certified lactation consultants and even breast pump rentals. These services complement TRICARE benefits, creating a comprehensive support system for growing families.
Perhaps most importantly, WIC serves as a bridge to other critical resources. The program's location within the hospital enables seamless coordination with obstetric services, pediatrics, and community programs.
“We're often the first to identify when a family needs additional support,” Speth said. “Whether it's connecting them with the New Parent Support Program or helping them access community food resources, we're here to help families thrive.”
The convenience of having WIC services on post cannot be overstated. For transferring families, the program offers continuity of care during PCS moves. For new parents, it provides immediate support during those critical early days.
Furthermore, IACH is uniquely positioned as potentially the only military treatment facility with a WIC office located within its walls.
“For military families, having WIC services on-site eliminates logistical challenges, making IACH a true one-stop shop for healthcare and family services,” Speth said. “More than just convenience, this model normalizes WIC as a vital part of a family’s overall healthcare plan, ensuring that eligible families receive the support they need seamlessly alongside their medical care.”
We encourage all eligible families to explore what WIC can offer. With flexible appointment scheduling, knowledgeable staff, and benefits that can make a real difference in family budgets, there's never been a better time to enroll. Visit the WIC office on the ground floor of Irwin Army Community Hospital or call (785) 240-7019 to learn more about how this program can support your family's health and wellbeing.
Applying is simple and confidential. Families can:
- Call the Fort Riley WIC office at (785) 240-7019
- Visit in person Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. at IACH (Ground Floor)
- Apply online HERE
Whether you’re expecting a baby, navigating breastfeeding, or just looking for extra support in feeding your child, WIC is here to help.