Bill boosts produce benefits in WIC during pandemic

(USDA)

A bill seeks to temporarily quadruple the fresh produce voucher benefit for participants in the Women, Infants and Children’s program.

The WIC Benefit Flexibility During COVID-19 Act (HR 6726), introduced by Reps. Kim Schrier, D-Wash., and Ron Wright, R-Texas, allows states to increase WIC cash value vouchers for fresh fruits and vegetables to $35 until Sept. 30, according to a news release.

Currently, the WIC program provides $9 for children and $11 for women each month for fruits and vegetables, according to the release. The bill permits states to request the waiver from the USDA for the enhanced vouchers to automatically go to WIC recipients, according to the release. In January, the government said more than 6.2 million mothers and children participated in WIC, and that number is expected to rise because of economic hardship related to COVID-19.

“The WIC program is fundamental to getting nutritious food to young children and pregnant women during important times of development,” Schrier said in the release. “This bill will help women and children to continue to have access to fresh fruits and vegetables during a time when staying healthy is very important and it will increase demand for these products at a time when farmers can use the help.”

United Fresh Produce Association president and CEO Tom Stenzel praised the lawmakers and said the legislation is needed.

“By now, we are all well aware that the fallout from the coronavirus has brought immense challenges to those who are food insecure, including those who have recently fallen on hard times,” Stenzel said in the release. “This legislation is an extraordinary step in recognizing that the current WIC benefit for fruits and vegetables is simply inadequate in helping young children and their mothers access enough fruits and vegetables to meet dietary recommendations and prevent diet-related chronic disease.”
 

Related articles

The Packer's coverage of  USDA 

The Packer's COVID-19 Updates 

 

 

 

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.