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MICHIGAN - The income guidelines for the Michigan Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program were recently adjusted due to federal guidelines, and more Michigan families may now qualify for benefits, according to a Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) press release on Wednesday. Under the updated WIC income eligibility guidelines, a family of four can now qualify with an annual income of up to $61,050, an increase of more than $1,500.
WIC, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) program administered by MDHHS, provides support to families by offering supplemental foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to health and social services, according to the release. WIC serves low- and moderate-income pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, infants and children under age 5.
"MDHHS is committed to helping residents put food on the table for their families," Amy Epkey, MDHHS acting director, said in the release. "Individuals in need of assistance who were not eligible in the past are encouraged to check the updated WIC income eligibility guidelines to see if they now qualify."
According to MDHHS, WIC has shown to lessen the number of fetal deaths, reduce infant mortality, decrease low birth weight deliveries, lower the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia, and increase immunization rates.
Each month, approximately 187,000 Michigan residents benefit from WIC services, helping families access resources, the release stated. In addition to improving health outcomes, WIC contributes to local economies by supporting Michigan retailers and farmers.
"For more than 50 years, WIC has helped families build healthier futures by providing nutritious foods, nutrition education, and personalized support during pregnancy and early childhood," Christina Herring, Michigan WIC Program director, said in the release. "With the recent income guideline adjustments, even more Michigan families may now be eligible for these important services. We encourage anyone who is pregnant, has young children or is caring for an infant to check their eligibility and discover how WIC can make a meaningful difference for their family."