Mission
The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) works to end hunger and obesity through the administration of 16 federal nutrition assistance programs including WIC, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and school meals. SNAP helps more than 41 million low-income people stretch their food budget so that they can purchase healthy food at authorized stores; WIC provides supplemental foods, nutrition education, and health care referrals to approximately 6.7 million low-income women, infants, and children; and school breakfast and lunch programs provide free and reduced-price meals to over 20 million low-income children.
Designated Services
Designated Services
Using WIC food benefits
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) serves 6.7 million participants on average and provides crucial health and nutritional support, as well as Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards or vouchers to purchase nutritious foods to supplement diets at authorized retail vendors. However, challenges arise from in-person transactions, especially for families with limited transportation. The move towards online shopping aligns with modern retail trends, ensuring broader access for WIC participants. With a focus on inclusivity, online WIC transactions will bridge the gap for those facing challenges in remote or rural areas. Aligning with the nationwide ability to redeem SNAP benefits at online retailers, this step promotes accessibility and modernizes the WIC experience for participants.
Action Plans
2022 Action Plan commitments are detailed in Executive Order 14058