The annual WIC Family Fun Day was held at Heritage Park on Friday, September 9, 2005. The event featured animal exhibits, children's books, storytelling, pony rides, face painting and healthy food for everyone. The WIC (Women, Infants, Children) Nutrition Program operates at the HealthFirst Family Care Center at 102 County Street, Fall River. WIC provides nutrition and health education, healthy food and other services free of charge to Massachusetts families who qualify.  WIC’s goal is to help keep pregnant and breastfeeding women, new moms, and kids under age 5 healthy. WIC also offers immunization screening and referral, breastfeeding support, and nutrition and health workshops on a variety of topics including meal planning, maintaining a healthy weight, picky eaters, caring for a new baby, and shopping on a budget.
 

(Top row) Children are fascinated by a demonstration of live animals including a bearded dragon lizard and an African pygmy hedgehog demonstrated by volunteer Paul.  (Middle row, left) Children's Librarian David Mello of the Fall River Public Library entertains youngsters with a demonstration of wild animal puppets. (Middle row, right) Lucas Raetz tries a pony ride. (Bottom row) Missy Gendreau decorates a young lady's arm while WIC staff members Kristen Perreira holds Vanesa and Carol Weber holds Ally, two WIC program participants, and parents enjoy the food.