#WIC

The Hawaiʻi State Department of Health and the Hawaiʻi State Department of Human Services are strengthening coordination between the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, to help more families access nutritious food and vital health supports.

Under the new federal law, those affected must complete an average of 80 hours per month (20 hours per week) in qualifying work or training activity. Acceptable activities include paid or self-employment, volunteer service with a government or nonprofit organization, or participation in job training programs such as SNAP Employment and Training, or services at American Job Centers.

The temporary increase of $35 will allow families to maximize WIC benefits and continue to include more fruits and vegetables into their daily meals while helping ease the extra financial stress they had to endure this past year.

The state implemented new eligibility guidelines on July 1, 2011, that expands the program’s ability to serve young families in Hawaii.