WIC Benefits: How much does ‘Women, Infants, and Children’ give a pregnant woman?

In California, there is a benefit called the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) card which is designed to make raising children more accessible and cheaper.

WIC Benefits: How do they work?

WIC families receive a monthly cash-value benefit for fruit and vegetable purchases on their California WIC cards.

Families can buy fresh, dried, canned, and frozen fruits and vegetables in any brand, type, or combination with their Fruits and Vegetable Benefit. Organic fruits and vegetables are included.

There was a benefit increase in October 2021, which has now been extended until September 2022. The increased amounts mean that 24 dollars a month are paid for children aged between one and five.

New policy brief: Permanently Increase WIC’s Cash Value Benefit for Fruit & Vegetable Purchases.

From April 2021-March 2022, the increased CVB provided $1.1 billion additional benefits to 4.7 million WIC families and increased fruit & veggie intake. https://t.co/MN3s8mUX7M pic.twitter.com/mOWDWnP17G

— Elizabeth Adams (@ElizabethLAdams) September 14, 2022

WIC Benefits for pregnant women

For pregnant and postpartum individuals, there are 43 dollars per month available. The payment is 47 dollars per month for fully and partially breastfeeding individuals.

For example, a family with one breastfeeding parent and three eligible children would get 119 dollars (47+24+24+24) each month through September for fruits and vegetables.

The extension to the scheme is set to last until the end of September 2022. Each monthly benefit is suitable for 30 days from the date they are issued. For example, benefits published on September 30, 2022, can be used through October 29, 2022.

In terms of actually using the card, it can be used in approved stores and with farmers that accept that form of payment. Local WIC staff are also on hand to share tips on making fruits and vegetable part of your daily meals if needed so that nothing goes to waste.