LOS ANGELES—More families can now access essential nutrition support through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), thanks to updated income guidelines that went into effect on April 1.
The new income guidelines are based on household size. A chart showing the new income guidelines is available on Heluna Health’s WIC program website.
Kiran Saluja, executive director of PHFE WIC, a program of Heluna Health, said the changes expand eligibility, allowing more families to receive healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support and other vital services.
“As families continue to navigate financial challenges, including inflation and specifically rising food costs, Heluna Health and PHFE WIC are committed to ensuring that those who need assistance can access it,” Saluja said. “With these updated income limits, we are encouraging families who may have been previously ineligible to check their eligibility again.”
To qualify for WIC, applicants must meet the new guidelines and be in one of the following categories:
- Have a child under age 5
- Be pregnant
- Be breastfeeding a baby under the age of 1
- Have given birth within the last six months
- Have experienced pregnancy loss or termination within the last six months
Families can apply or renew their WIC accounts with convenient phone and video appointments, as well as in-person services available at 29 office locations.
Families who were previously ineligible are encouraged to reapply under the new guidelines at phfewic.org/apply, or by texting the word APPLY to 91997.
About PHFE WIC
PHFE WIC, a program of Heluna Health, is the largest WIC agency in the country. The program serves parents, infants and children in Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino counties. PHFE WIC is nationally recognized as a leader and innovator in nutrition education, breastfeeding support, staff training, customer service and outreach to community partners.
About Heluna Health
For more than 50 years, Heluna Health has collaborated with community-based organizations, public health agencies, healthcare systems, providers and policymakers to enhance public health interventions that support expanded access to disease prevention, treatment, care and social resources. Heluna Health is at the forefront of efforts to research, develop and expand community-led interventions aimed at systemic change and improved health outcomes.
Read more at Helunahealth.org: Heluna Health Launches Poquita’s Garden, a Children’s Book Addressing Food Insecurity, Nutrition and Community Connection
