How to get free formula
the 2022 formula shortage will go down in history as one of the worst examples of supply-chain vulnerability. with inflation rising and an abundance of empty shelves, buying formula can be a stressful event for all parents.
although i can’t fix the supply-chain I do have some advice on how to get formula for free, or almost free. here’s how:
apply for wic (Women, Infants and Children)
Wic, (Women, Infants and Children) is a public health nutrition program funded by the U.s. Government to provided nutritional supplement to Pregnant women and their children aged 0-5. If you meet the income requirements you will be eligible to receive free formula and other grocery products such as eggs, bread, vegetables and more.
Now, you might be thinking this is an obvious answer, but I had no idea about WIC when I was Pregnant. As I student, I qualified for the program but wasn’t made aware until after giving birth. I could have greatly benefited from the program. So, don’t make my mistake. what you don’t know can hurt you.
In order to apply for WIC, find your local state office that handles it. You often need to provide some medical information (such as a confirmation of pregnancy if you are still pregnant), your child’s birth certificate, and some proof of income.
that being said, call your local wIC office today to see if you are eligible.
Sign up for formula rewards programs
Both Similac and enfamil have their own respective rewards programs that you can sign-up for online and recieve coupons before you even give birth. here are their names and how they work:
Enfamil family Beginnings can be applied for on the company’s website. When I signed up, I recieved a sample box of 4 formula cans, and a book of enfamil coupons for different brands of formulas. These coupons can make a HUGE difference at the checkout counter
Similac rewards can also be applied for on the company website. after signup-up, i received a welcome-box of coupons, and two six-pack 2oz samples of similac 360. the coupons were amazing and worth $25 each
I also received multiple rewards offers on the similac website (make sure to check your email to see when they arrive, because they expire) for $15 off any similac product. they worked as debit cards I could apply directly at the checkout counter or online at a variety of retailers, including amazon
both of these rewards programs also include rewards points and benefits after a certain amount of formula purchases. I would also like to note both welcome boxes came with valuable coupon books for free infant shoes, personalized pacifiers, hooded towels and more…
in short, sign up! And even if you aren’t using formula, sign up for your friends that are!
ask your pediatrician or local pregnancy center
Many pediatricians carry some supply of formula at their offices. don’t be shy to ask for some samples. also, keep your eyes peeled in your child’s pediatricians offices for coupons and other freebies. I’ve often snagged a few coupons for a variety of products that way, such as formula, prebiotic gummies, electrolyte drink enhancers, and more.
also sometimes they just have great trial-sized products for moms too. i recently got some mini cera ve facewash samples at my baby’s last check-up. who would’ve thought.
furthermore, pregnancy centers are great community resources for new parents. many also carry a supply of formula, and have a variety of resources for parents such as (but not limited to), parenting classes, baby supplies, esl, financial literacy courses, support groups, and more.
Check your clearance aisles
When i lived in the south i had the pleasure of living 10 minutes from a kroger. i ,more often than not, saw cans of discounted formula, baby food and more in the clearance aisle. if your local grocery store has a dedicated clearance section, don’t skip it. you never know what you may find.
In summary
there are a variety of ways to get free or discounted formula through rewards programs, and community resources. if you are struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to the sources around you. you and your child matter.
do you know any other ways to get free or discounted forumla? share your experience in the comments below.
