Health District expands monthly WIC benefits

The Clark County Combined Health District is temporarily increasing monthly cash benefit value for fruits and vegetables for women and children, according to a statement from the health district.

Women and children are now eligible to receive $35 each for fruits and vegetables, up from the normal benefit of $11 for women and $9 for children.

The increase is temporary and will last until July 31, the statement said.

“In addition to this great benefit, cheese, yogurt and chocolate milk have all been added to the food package,” the statement said.

Funding for the temporary expansion of benefits comes from the COVID relief package bill that was signed last month by President Joe Biden.

The American Rescue Plan includes $880 million in funding for the WIC program, Emily Thomas, WIC Program Director for the CCCHD said.

“This means that it is available for WIC programs across the country,” Thomas said.

WIC is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. To qualify for WIC benefits you must be income eligible for pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding, or have children younger than 5 years of age.

According to the CCCHD, the program improves pregnancy outcomes by providing or referring to support services necessary for fullterm pregnancies, reduces infant mortality by reducing the incidence of low birth weight and provides infants and children with a healthy start in life by improving poor or inadequate diets.