BY STUART DYOS
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, also known as WIC, has increased their income guidelines and qualifications and more Alabamians now qualify for the food assistance.
“WIC works with families to meet nutrition goals and provides healthy foods to support optimal growth and development,” Alabama WIC Director Allison Hatchett said in a press release. “Nutritious foods help pregnant women have healthy babies and help children grow to become healthy adults.”
Women who are pregnant, have given birth within the past six months, are currently breastfeeding or parents or guardians of a child up to the age of five should contact their local county health department or WIC agency to see if they qualify.
“Alabama WIC Program understands the struggles many families face to establish healthy eating habits, and WIC is here to help women, infants and children in Alabama,” Hatchett said.
The program is available for those with an income up to 85% above the federal poverty level. Each qualifying family member can receive food benefits and increased cash value benefits.
A family of four now qualifies if they make $1,110 or less per week.
Requirements include a limited income and a nutritional need. Families receiving Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families are eligible for WIC. Due to the higher income threshold, families who do not qualify for these programs may be eligible for WIC. For further information, visit http://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/wic or call, 1-888-942-4673.
