West Virginia’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (also known as WIC) has temporarily raised the amount of cash assistance for eligible participants, to purchase additional fruits and vegetables. Currently, breastfeeding women receive $16.50 per month, pregnant women receive $11 per month, and children receive $9 per child. With funds form the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, the cash-value benefit will be increased to $35 per month for each eligible participant. This increase is effective for the months of June, July, August, and September 2021. 

WIC provides women, infants, and children up to age 5 with healthy foods, breastfeeding support, nutrition education, and health care referrals free of charge. In order to qualify, household income must be no more than 185% of the federal poverty income guidelines. Families who receive Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Supplemental Assistance for Needy Families (SNAP) automatically qualify.

For more information about WIC, to see if you qualify, or to apply, visit the WIC website.