WIC program sees new options

• Families can now shop for fresh fruit, vegetables

By Naomi Klouda
Homer Tribune
The 500 clients enrolled in Homer’s Women and Infant Children program will see a difference this month when they shop for local foods with WIC certificates.
For the first time in 30 years, the federally funded WIC program has changed its health guidelines to allow for brown rice, fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as soy products like tofu.
“We’ve been trying to let people know since August,” said Homer WIC Director Debbie Gardner. “We’ve been excited and they have been excited to hear about the changes.”
The local WIC office has promoted the new guidelines that started Oct. 1 in a campaign called “Balanced nutrition matters.”
One change includes adding a choice of whole grain breads, tortillas, brown rice, barley or bulgur wheat.
Recipients will receive cash vouchers like those issued during the summer for the Farmer’s Market for fresh fruit and vegetables year-round, though they could also chose to use it for canned or frozen options. The amount given is $6 for children, $8 for pregnant moms and $10 for breast-feeding mothers.
For years, the only milk allowed for purchase through WIC was cow’s milk. A voucher allotted other options for those showing lactose intolerance. Now, however, options include soy milk beverages, tofu and cheese in place of milk.
“And we had never before given out baby food,” Gardner said. “Now, moms have their choice of fruits and vegetables at 6 months, allowing 256 ounces a month. That’s a lot of jars of baby food.”
The amount of cash value is less than $150 a month. The certificates are used at local grocery stores – even in the communities of Nanwalek, Port Graham and Seldovia – where the stores have been stocking up for the changeover, Gardner said. There will be a transition period where some things will not be available.
The nutritional program starts at pregnancy and is available until the child reaches five years of age. The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services estimates it serves approximately 25,000 Alaskans.
The WIC program will also increase the amount of food provided to mothers who breast-feed their babies full-time to better promote and support breast-feeding.
“These healthy food choices serve as a continuum of our efforts to promote better nutrition and healthier food choices,” said Ellie Fitzjarrald, Director of Public Assistance.  

WIC Changes

• WIC clients can purchase whole grains and fresh, canned and frozen fruits and vegetables.
• Beginning at 6 months, all infants receive infant fruits and vegetables, while fully breast-fed infants also receive infant meats.
• Soy milk and tofu may be given as an alternative to milk.
• The amount of milk, eggs, juice and cheese is reduced for women and children.
• Juice is eliminated for infants. 

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