HARRISBURG, PA — On Wednesday, Acting Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen joined leaders from across the nation to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Pennsylvania’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. This initiative provides vital nutrition and support services to families throughout the state.
Earlier this month, Governor Josh Shapiro declared May 2024 as Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Month. This proclamation highlighted the enduring impact of the program, which has supported countless families since its inception in 1974.
“As a pediatrician, I have seen firsthand the benefits of the PA WIC program for women, children, and families across the Commonwealth,” said Dr. Bogen. “The program supports nutritional and age-appropriate education and diets, breastfeeding support and education, and referrals to services in their communities. Evaluations of the WIC program across decades have consistently shown that participation results in better pregnancy and child health outcomes. Even after 50 years, the WIC program continues to evolve to meet the needs of Pennsylvania women, infants, and children.”
Funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the WIC program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. It provides nutrition education, breastfeeding support, healthy foods, and referrals to health and social services. The goal is to improve health outcomes for families across the state.
The first WIC voucher in Pennsylvania was issued in Allegheny County on May 28, 1974. Since then, the program has expanded significantly. Today, it serves nearly 200,000 women, infants, and children under age five each month at more than 230 clinics and 1,235 retail stores across the state.
Eligibility for the WIC program includes:
- Women who are pregnant or have had a baby in the past six months (or 12 months if breastfeeding),
- Infants and children under age five,
- Fathers, grandparents, and foster parents who are the legal guardians of a child under age five.
Recent innovations include the introduction of five WIC mobile units, with plans to add five more by September 30, 2024. These mobile units operate as fully functional satellite clinics, reaching rural and urban areas. “Mobile WIC units help meet the needs of people facing transportation barriers by meeting them where they are,” said Pennsylvania WIC Director Sally ZubairuCofield. “The fleet of ‘clinics on wheels’ will help increase participation in the WIC program, delivering greater access and equity throughout Pennsylvania.”
Other improvements include self-checkout options in some stores, a WIC Shopper Guide, and modernized appointment reminders via text messaging.
Studies by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service and other entities have shown that the WIC program delivers numerous benefits. These include fewer premature births and infant deaths, savings in health care costs, improved infant feeding practices, and enhanced cognitive development.
This milestone marks not just a celebration but a call to recognize the ongoing importance of the WIC program. The support it offers is crucial for the physical, emotional, and cognitive development of children, which lays the foundation for their future success.
Celebrating 50 Years of Nourishing Futures: The WIC Program’s Lifeline to Families
The program’s continued growth and adaptation reflect a commitment to addressing the evolving needs of families. As transportation and logistical challenges persist, the introduction of mobile units and other innovations ensures that support reaches those who need it most.
For many families, the WIC program is a lifeline. It ensures that children start their lives with the nutrition and care they need to thrive. As Pennsylvania celebrates 50 years of this vital service, the focus remains on ensuring that every child has the best possible start in life.
This anniversary is a testament to the program’s lasting impact and its role in shaping healthier communities. With continued support and innovation, the WIC program will remain a cornerstone of family health in Pennsylvania for many years to come.
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