WIC Temporarily Extends Increased Funding for Fruit and Vegetables

According to the City of El Paso, " [The] Department of Public Health’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program has extended the temporary, increase in the fruit and vegetable dollar amount through September 30, 2022.

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The Cash-Value Benefit (CVB) amount for fruits and vegetables will show in eligible WIC participants' shopping lists starting July 1, 2022, through September 30, 2022. Participants that already have April, May, or June benefits, will need to return to the WIC office to ensure their benefits are modified to reflect the increase.

The CVB amounts are as follows:

•  $24 per month for child participants
•  $43 per month for pregnant, postpartum, and some breastfeeding women participants
•  $47 per month for fully and partially breastfeeding women participants
•  $70.50 per month for fully breastfeeding multiples/women participants

This food benefit may be used to purchase fruit and vegetables that are fresh, frozen, canned, in glass jars or plastic containers. Participants are able to choose organic or standard, single or mixed items that meet nutrition requirements and specifications. This extension will benefit current WIC participants which are as follows:

•  25,455 total WIC participants
•  12,405 children
•  3,027 breastfeeding women
•  2,327 pregnant women

WIC benefits begin during pregnancy and continue until the participating child’s fifth birthday. WIC provides supplemental foods designed to meet the special nutrition needs of low-income participants, breastfeeding support, and nutrition counseling by trained professionals.

To qualify as a WIC participant, income eligibility guidelines and El Paso/Hudspeth County residency must be met. For a list of items to bring to an appointment click here.

Residents can fill out a quick application by visiting texaswic.org/apply.com or call the WIC Customer Service Center Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at (915) 212-4942, or visit EPHealth.com and click on the WIC tab."