Tag: WIC

Huntersville WIC Office Reopens April 27 to Serve Local Families

April 16, 2026
Media Contact: Kathy Lamm, Kathy.Lamm@vdh.virginia.gov
(757) 236-0529

Huntersville WIC Office Reopens April 27 to Serve Local Families

NORFOLK, Va. — The Norfolk Health Department will reopen the Huntersville WIC office on April 27. The office has been closed for maintenance work.

The office is located at 830 Goff St. It provides help through the WIC program, which stands for Women, Infants, and Children. Reopening this location makes it easier for people in the Huntersville area to get healthy food and health advice right in their own neighborhood.

“The reopening of our Huntersville office is about more than just a building; it is about being there for our neighbors,” said Dr. Susan Girois, director of the Norfolk Health Department. “We want to make sure that every parent and child in this community has easy access to the healthy food and expert care they deserve, right where they live and work.”

The WIC program offers several benefits to families:

  • Healthy foods: Monthly help to buy groceries like milk, eggs, fruit, vegetables, and baby formula.
  • Nutrition advice: Tips from experts on how to eat healthy and help children grow.
  • Breastfeeding help: Support and advice for new mothers.
  • Doctor referrals: Help finding doctors, dentists, and other programs like Medicaid.

The office helps Virginia residents who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as infants and children up to age 5. Families who already get Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF usually qualify for WIC.

The Huntersville WIC office will be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. To make an appointment, please call 757-683-9280.

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Every Family Deserves a Healthy Start

April 16, 2026
Media Contact: Erin E. Perkins, erin.perkins@vdh.virginia.gov

Every Family Deserves a Healthy Start
Rappahannock Area Health District Supports Healthy Pregnancies During Black Maternal Health Week

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Pregnancy is often a time of joy and uncertainty. During Black Maternal Health Week, April 11-17, the Rappahannock Area Health District (RAHD) is working to help more families experience safe, supported, and healthy pregnancies.

Black women are twice as likely to die from a pregnancy-associated cause compared to White women, and are more likely to die from cardiac-related causes. Doulas, Community Health Workers (CHWs), and the Women Infants and Children (WIC) programs provide support and connect families to healthcare, nutritious food, as well as items needed to support healthy pregnancies and healthy babies.

“The Rappahannock Area Health District is committed to helping address this significant health disparity,” says RAHD Health Director Rachel Stradling. “This stark difference in maternal health outcomes is not simply a statistic, but rather a call to action.  By investing in evidence-based supports like doulas, WIC, and CHWs, we are actively working to change outcomes for all families in our region. “

RAHD offers several services that can help families thrive through the work of its Maternal and Child Health CHW, as well as its support of certified doulas. These trusted individuals understand different cultures and beliefs, helping to eliminate disparities in care. They teach pregnant women about childbirth and are trained to coach families through the emotional and physical process of pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. They can also help connect people to resources, such as healthy food, and assist with navigating the healthcare system.

The WIC Program is designed to give children the very best beginning through nutrition education and counseling, healthy eating habits, and access to healthy foods and healthcare. Breastfeeding support and referrals are offered to women throughout pregnancy and continue after delivery until they have stopped breastfeeding their infants. Pregnant women and children (up to age five) who qualify receive monthly food benefits, such as eggs, fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, cheese, whole grains and cereals on their eWIC cards.  RAHD served 4,650 WIC clients last year, with more than 1,200 of those families identifying as Black. Participants in the WIC program have improved birth outcomes and increased breastfeeding rates. To be eligible for the program applicants must show they have a financial need and nutrition risk.

These programs help every family get a healthy start. Families can sign up for any one of the services by calling their local health department.  Contact information and office addresses for all health department locations within the RAHD can be found by visiting Local Health Departments – Rappahannock

“Programs like WIC, certification of community doulas, and CHWs are supporting families through access to nutrition and breastfeeding support, as well as pregnancy and postpartum education and resources, helps close the gap in maternal health outcomes and ensures every Black mother has the chance to thrive,” said RAHD Public Health Nutritionist Supervisor Sr. and WIC Coordinator Davida Mensah.

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Mount Rogers Health District Releases 2025 Annual Report

April 16, 2026
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, Brianne.Kilbourne@vdh.virginia.gov

Mount Rogers Health District Releases 2025 Annual Report

MARION, Va. – The Mount Rogers Health District has released its 2025 Annual Report, providing residents with a clear view of local health department services, outcomes, and priorities across the cities of Bristol and Galax, and the counties of Bland, Carroll, Grayson, Smyth, Washington, and Wythe. The report details the health district’s response to Hurricane Helene, expanded access to care through mobile services, and opioid overdose prevention, and core programs that help families stay safe and healthy.

“I’m excited to share the hard work our Mount Rogers Health District staff have poured into serving our communities over the past year. This Annual Report is a highlight reel of their dedication and the hard work they do every day across the district,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, health director for the Mount Rogers Health District.

Key highlights residents should know:

  • More than 1,000 BabyCare visits completed by public health nurses, supporting maternal and infant health across the district.
  • Over 1,800 food establishment inspections conducted by Environmental Health, ensuring safe food handling practices.
  • An average of over 3,300 monthly participants in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, strengthening nutrition and health for families.
  • More than 800 Naloxone kits and more than 250 drug test kits were distributed by the Population Health team to prevent and reduce overdose deaths.

Want to know more? Read or download the full 2025 Annual Report by visiting www.MRHD.org.

Crater Health Districts Says Healthy Choices Can Build a Healthier Community

March 26, 2026
Media Contact: Kayla Barber, Kayla.Barber@vdh.virginia.gov

Media Contact: Rashel Charles, Rashel.Charles@vdh.virginia.gov

Crater Health Districts Says Healthy Choices Can Build a Healthier Community
March is National Nutrition Month in Virginia

PETERSBURG, Va. – One in four people are living with obesity in the United States. In Virginia, it’s closer to one in three (32%). 2024, approximately 32% of Virginia adults were classified as obese. March is National Nutrition Month, and the Crater Health District (CHD) wants to remind you that nutrition plays a crucial role in your overall health and well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), only about 12% of adults reported eating the recommended 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day.

“National Nutrition Month is a great reminder that healthy eating starts right here in our community. When families have access to fresh foods, local resources, and practical guidance, everyone has a better chance to thrive,” said Crater District Health Director, Dr. Alton Hart, Jr. “Our health department is proud to offer nutrition resources and provide food boxes to help the community.”

Eating healthier can change your health outcomes. Crater Health District has implemented a variety of programs to address nutrition and food security across the state. CHD offers programs, such as the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, nutrition education and counseling, supplemental nutritious foods, breastfeeding support, health screenings and referrals, immunization referrals and monitoring, farmers market nutrition program (FMNP), and FEEDMORE resources to provide access to nutritious foods, nutrition education, and health services to thousands of Virginians each year.

“Celebrate National Nutrition Month with the Crater Health District WIC Program and discover how powerful good nutrition can be, said Kayla Barber, WIC Coordinator, Crater Health District. If you’re pregnant, postpartum, or have a child under five, your local WIC office can connect you with nutritious foods. Rather than scroll through diet trends on social media, apply for WIC and gain access to nutrition experts. Let us help your family stay nourished, healthy, and confident on any budget.”

Crater Health District wants you to consider these five tips for proper daily nutrition:

  • Eat a Variety of Foods: Include a mix of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your daily meals to ensure a broad spectrum of nutrients.
  • Choose Whole Grains Over Refined Grains: Whole grains (like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread) provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined grains.
  • Limit Added Sugars and Salt: Reduce intake of sugar-sweetened beverages, desserts, and salty snacks, and check nutrition labels for hidden sugars and sodium.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, aiming for at least 6–8 cups unless your healthcare provider directs otherwise.
  • Practice Portion Control and Mindful Eating: Be aware of portion sizes, eat slowly, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues to avoid overeating.

Throughout March, CHD encourages you to take this opportunity to learn more about nutrition, explore local resources, and adopt healthier eating habits.

  • Find an accountability partner to keep you on track.
  • Start with small practices and build your plan of healthier habits.
  • Try new, healthier practices at your favorite restaurant and be mindful of the decisions you make to stay on track.

Visit https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/healthy-communities/healthy-food-environments/ for nutrition resources or contact the Crater Health District at 804-863-1652 or visit Crater Health District for more information.

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Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts Release 2025 Annual Report Highlighting Public Health Progress

February 5th, 2026

Media Contact: Tes La Dieu, Population Health Manager, (757) 594-7411

 

Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts Release 2025 Annual Report Highlighting Public Health Progress

NEWPORT NEWS, VA. – The Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts (HPHD) are proud to share the FY2025 Annual Report.  The report highlights a year of growth, resilience and ongoing work to make the Greater Peninsula region a healthier place to live.

HPHD had several notable accomplishments over the last year, including Project Public Health Ready recognition for 2025–2029, reflecting HPHD’s commitment to public health preparedness.

“This past year brought challenges, but it also brought growth and recognition,” said HPHD’s health district director, Dr. Natasha Dwamena. “Our staff has shown resilience and adaptability. They continue to find new ways to meet the needs of our community. Our team remains mission-driven and dedicated to improving the health of our community.”

Despite public health funding cuts, HPHD continued to deliver essential services to protect community health.

Highlights from the report include:

  • Clinical services
    • More than 8,000 clinical services provided
    • 5,211 vaccines administered
    • 2,872 family planning and sexual health visits
  • Substance use prevention (Project LEAD)
    • 28 REVIVE! overdose response trainings
    • 695 naloxone and opioid response kits distributed
  • Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program
    • More than 6,000 enrollments
    • Breastfeeding support provided to about 200 women per month
  • Disease prevention
    • More than 3,800 tuberculosis screenings
    • More than 600 disease case investigations
  • Environmental health
    • More than 4,900 services completed
    • 2,798 food safety inspections
    • 891 rabies investigations
    • 202 beach water samples collected
  • Vital records
    • More than 35,000 records processed

HPHD also launched several new initiatives during the year, including a program at the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail. Through this effort, the population health team shares health information with incarcerated individuals to help them better manage their care after release.

Additional highlights include:

  • Public safety: HPHD received comprehensive harm reduction state certification, enabling greater public safety and improved health outcomes in response to the opioid crisis.
  • Community engagement: More than 3,000 community interactions through classes, meetings, and events across the Greater Peninsula.

Read the full HPHD FY2025 Annual Report.

 

 

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Holding Ground on Maternal Health

January 23, 2026
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

Holding Ground on Maternal Health
Chesapeake Health District Delivering Hope on Maternal Health Awareness Day, January 23

CHESAPEAKE, Va.– The Chesapeake Health Department renews its commitment to protecting mothers and supporting healthy families before, during and after pregnancy. Through preventative services, access to care, and postpartum support, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) can help address issues such as high blood pressure, substance use, mental health, and chronic conditions to make pregnancy and the postpartum period safer and healthier for all families.

A simple start to a healthy pregnancy for all women of childbearing age is to take a daily supplement with folic acid. Folic acid will help reduce the risk of birth defects to a baby’s spine and brain.

In 2022, 67 women in Virginia died from pregnancy-associated causes.  Pregnancy-associated means during or up to one year after pregnancy, regardless of the cause of death or outcome of the pregnancy. The mortality rate for Black and Hispanic women is twice that of white women.

“As a pediatrician, I am encouraged to see the focus on maternal health,” said Dr. Nancy Welch, Director, Chesapeake Health Department. “Early support of mothers during pregnancy has significantly improved birth outcomes and post-partum success. Studies also show that prevention and pre-natal care have a positive impact on the long-term cost of health care across the board.”

VDH is working hard to reduce the number of maternal deaths, as well as avoidable health complications that families face. The Chesapeake Health Department offers a variety of pregnancy and postpartum resources to support families and physicians.

Virginia WIC provides nutrition education, breastfeeding promotion and support, supplemental nutritious foods, counseling at WIC clinics, and screening and referrals to other health, welfare, and social services to improve the health of pregnant women, infants and children. WIC – Women, Infants and Children – Chesapeake Health District

In Virginia, nine home visiting models are available to eligible families. These models are free services where trained professionals visit expectant and new families in their homes. They provide personalized support, parenting guidance, health and development checks, and connections to community resources, including improved access to food and employment. Families can visit the Early Impact Virginia (EIV) directory to get connected to services.

BabyCare Home Visitation connects you with registered nurses, offering resources, personal support and experienced care in-home, online, by text and phone from pregnancy until your baby is two years old. BabyCare – Chesapeake Health District

If you are feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, reach out to the Chesapeake Health Department BayCare Team at at (757) 382-8652 or email ChesapeakeBabyCare@vdh.virginia.gov. Staff are available to help guide families toward a healthier pregnancy.

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Mecklenburg County Health Department Opens Chase City Facility for Clinical Services

November 17, 2025

Media Contact: Brian C. Little, Sr., Central Virginia PIO, brian.little@vdh.virginia.gov

Mecklenburg County Health Department Opens Chase City Facility for Clinical Services

CHASE CITY, Va. – Southside Health District is proud to announce the official opening of Mecklenburg County Health Department’s new clinical services facility located at 200 East 5th St. in Chase City. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on November 14, marking the department’s commitment to providing access to essential public health services for the Mecklenburg community.

Ribbon cutting of the Chase City Health Clinic. Pictured: Southside Health District staff, Southside Health District Director Scott J. Spillmann, MD, MPH, Chase City Mayor Alden Fahringer, Delegate Otto Wachsmann (83rd District), Senator Tammy Brankley Mulchi (9th District), and Mecklenburg County Administrator Alex Gottschalk.
Ribbon cutting of the Chase City Health Clinic.
Pictured: Southside Health District staff, Southside Health District Director Scott J. Spillmann, MD, MPH, Chase City Mayor Alden Fahringer, Delegate Otto Wachsmann (83rd District), Senator Tammy Brankley Mulchi (9th District), and Mecklenburg County Administrator Alex Gottschalk.

“We were pleased to welcome government officials and the community to our new facility as staff showcased the range of services we provide,” said Southside Health District Director Scott J. Spillmann, MD, MPH. “This open house offered a chance for people to meet our dedicated team and learn more about how we can help them lead healthier lives.”

Although the clinic has been serving residents since April, the ribbon cutting provided the opportunity to formally celebrate the new facility. The Chase City clinic makes it easier to meet the health needs of families and individuals across the county.

Services offered at the Chase City clinic include:

  • Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program: Nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and supplemental food program for eligible families.
  • Immunizations: Routine childhood vaccinations, boosters for adults, and protection against preventable diseases like the flu.
  • Family Planning: Confidential counseling, birth control options, pregnancy testing, and physical exams.
  • STI Clinics: Clinical exams, lab work, and counseling for sexually transmitted infections, to include HIV.
  • Vital Records: Virginia birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates.

“This new clinic strengthens our ability to provide our community with the resources they need to live healthier lives. We are excited to provide high‑quality services in a space that meets the needs of our residents” said Tina Slabach, Nurse Manager Senior, Mecklenburg County Health Department.

For additional information on these clinic services, or to schedule an appointment please contact the Mecklenburg County Health Department at 434-533-8213.

Mecklenburg County Health Department’s environmental health, epidemiology, and population health programs remain at the Boydton office located at 478 Washington St., Boydton, Va.

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Goochland Health Department to Host an Open House

Goochland, Va. – The Chickahominy Health District (CHD) invites you to explore the services available at the Goochland Health Department during an Open House event on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Health Department is located in the Goochland County Administration building: 1800 Sandy Hook Road, Goochland, VA 23063.

“This is an opportunity for community members to learn more about the public health programs provided by their local health department and ask us questions. We’ll have staff available to discuss clinical services, the WIC nutrition program, our environmental health program, naloxone education, and the car seat program, among other topics,” stated Emily Hines, CHD’s Population Health Planning and Improvement Coordinator. “Attendees will have the opportunity to provide recommendations regarding the recently published 2025-2029 Goochland County Community Health Improvement Plan so we’re looking forward to your input!”

There will also be food, activities, and a chance to receive a thank-you prize during the event. The Open House is for all Goochland County community members and local organizations. For more information about the Chickahominy Health District, please visit: www.vdh.virginia.gov/chickahominy.

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Central Shenandoah Health District: Every Baby Deserves the Best Beginning

August 21, 2025
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District: Every Baby Deserves the Best Beginning
Central Shenandoah Health District Supports Moms During National Breastfeeding Month

STAUNTON, Va.– It’s often referred to as “liquid gold” and during August, National Breastfeeding Month, the Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) is pumping out tips and resources to support new parents and celebrate the benefits of human milk. Here are eight reasons why breastfeeding is beneficial:

  1. Breast milk helps build babies’ immune systems which protect them from many chronic and acute illnesses.
  2. Parents miss fewer days at work because breastfed babies are not sick as often.
  3. Breastmilk is safe, clean and convenient. No bottles to wash and it’s always with you.
  4. Breastfeeding burns extra calories, making it easier to lose weight gained during pregnancy.
  5. Breastfeeding promotes bonding. When you breastfeed, your body produces more oxytocin known as the “love hormone.” Its calming and stress-reducing effects enhance feelings of love and well-being.
  6. Women who breastfeed reduce their risk for breast and ovarian
  7. Breastfeeding can save money and the planet. It’s natural and eco-friendly.
  8. Breastmilk changes as your baby grows to meet their nutritional and developmental needs, making it the perfect food.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) recommends infants be breastfed for the first six months of life, with gradual introduction of solid foods at six months. Infants can continue to be breastfed for the first year of life and thereafter as long as mom and baby desire.

“Those of us that work in public health are passionate about breastfeeding, and for good reason,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, Acting Health Director for CSHD. “Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life is linked to many benefits for mothers and babies alike, and supporting mothers in this endeavor is crucial.”

If you want to breastfeed but have questions, are facing barriers, or just aren’t comfortable – let us support you.  Check out these VDH resources to:

For more information, visit the VDH Breastfeeding Resource Page or contact the Central Shenandoah Health District at cshdinfo@vdh.virginia.gov

Every Baby Deserves the Best Beginning

August 6, 2025
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov

Every Baby Deserves the Best Beginning
The Chesapeake Health Department Supports Moms During National Breastfeeding Month

Chesapeake, Va.– It’s often referred to as “liquid gold” and during August, National Breastfeeding Month, the Chesapeake Health Department is pumping out tips and resources to support new parents and celebrate the benefits of human milk.

Two-time Breastfeeding Gold Award and 2024 WIC Department of the Year recipients, Chesapeake WIC, will celebrate Friday, August 8, from noon to 3:00 p.m. at the Chesapeake Health Department, 748 Battlefield Blvd., Chesapeake. WIC families will enjoy games, giveaways, lactation consultants, and a stroller parade.

Here are eight reasons why breastfeeding is beneficial:

  1. Breast milk helps build babies’ immune systems which protect them from many chronic and acute illnesses.
  2. Parents miss fewer days at work because breastfed babies are not sick as often.
  3. Breastmilk is safe, clean and convenient. No bottles to wash and it’s always with you.
  4. Breastfeeding burns extra calories, making it easier to lose weight gained during pregnancy.
  1. Breastfeeding promotes bonding. When you breastfeed, your body produces more oxytocin known as the “love hormone.” Its calming and stress-reducing effects enhance feelings of love and well-being.
  2. Women who breastfeed reduce their risk for breast and ovarian cancer.
  1. Breastfeeding can save money and the planet. It’s natural and eco-friendly.
  2. Breastmilk changes as your baby grows to meet their nutritional and developmental needs, making it the perfect food.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) recommends infants be breastfed for the first six months of life, with gradual introduction of solid foods at six months. Infants can continue to be breastfed for the first year of life and thereafter as long as mom and baby desire.

Chesapeake Health Department Director, Dr. Nancy Welch, is a staunch supporter of the program and WIC staff. “Excellence doesn’t happen by accident. The well-earned recognition of our Chesapeake WIC staff exemplifies the very definition of public health as a community value. We are here to serve.”

If you want to breastfeed but have questions, are facing barriers or just aren’t comfortable – let us support you.  VDH has lots of resources including:

For more information, visit the VDH Breastfeeding Resource Page or contact The Chesapeake Health department at 757-382-8631.

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