The WIC Program: A 50-Year Quest for Better Nutrition, but Participation Declines
WIC is a program that has been in existence for 50 years, aimed at ensuring women, infants and children have access to good nutrition. This initiative was started to address the nutritional deficiencies faced by mothers and their children. Apart from offering food and formula, WIC also provides education and support for breastfeeding.
Christina Arangio and Jaclyn Hart reported on this program and found that participation levels have been steadily increasing over the years until they started declining in 2011. In New York, the participation rate is above the national average at 53%, with over 400,000 participants. About 42% of infants born in the state are enrolled in WIC, with a 10% increase in breastfeeding initiation rates among women from 2010 to 2020.
Recently, Congress increased funding for the program by over $1 billion, which includes maintaining the increased Cash Value Benefit that allows participants to purchase more fruits and vegetables. However, states like Nevada where involvement is below the national average are making efforts to encourage families to take advantage of this program.
Before visiting a local WIC agency, individuals can use a prescreening tool to determine if they qualify for the program. This tool helps ensure that those who need nutrition assistance can access the resources and support provided by WIC.
