Michigan programs have taken steps to expand the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, so that even families making up to $55,000 a year, now qualify for federal food assistance. This important update has been met with approval from the local population, given increased food prices and nutrition deficiencies faced by many Michigan residents.
Michigan families have been given a great opportunity to qualify for federal food assistance through the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program. Now, households with an income level of up to 185 percent of the federal poverty guideline of $30,000 for a family of four, which is $55,500 a year, can apply for the program which provides healthy food, nutrition tips, and support for mothers and children under the age of five. No citizenship is required.
Michigan Increases Income Eligibility for Federal Food Assistance Programs
Michigan officials proudly announced a Thursday change to the state’s income eligibility guidelines, allowing more families to qualify for federal food assistance programs. According to state tax records, the change will benefit 160,760 tax filers who earned between $50,001 and $55,000 in 2020. This comes at the perfect time, as food prices have risen by 7.7 percent from April 2022 to April 2023.
WIC Director Christina Herring said in a statement that this change is “significant”, and noted the importance of nutritional education and healthy foods for women and children. According to the state’s website, over 200,000 beneficiaries receive assistance from the program each month.
WIC offers nutritious food products, breastfeeding support, health and nutrition education, and referrals to health care services. Ms. Herring encourages those interested in applying for the program to contact their local WIC agency or call 211.
Utilizing the expanded guidelines for WIC in Michigan provides an incredible opportunity for more families across the state to receive nutritional educational assistance and healthy food. Providing access to this type of support is paramount to supporting vulnerable populations in uncertain times, especially during a global pandemic and when food prices are going up. With these changes, the WIC director has stated this impact will be significant, a decidated effort to aid those who need it most in the ever-shifting landscape of efficient and cost-effective assistance.
