Iowa Woman Infant and Children (WIC) has partnered with Hy-Vee to offer more convenient shopping for those enrolled in the nutritional program. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Special Supplemental Nutrition Program WIC is now available to purchase accepted items for online ordering and pick up. HHS started exploring the idea of advancing the program to participate in this new feature with a pilot program in a Des Moines store in February of this year. After working out the details to be as efficient as possible, the initiative expanded across Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska in early June. The new feature for the WIC program was made possible through a grant from the Center for Nutrition and Health Impact. HHS Director Kelly Garcia says, “This is yet another incredible example of a public-private partnership that will greatly benefit individuals receiving WIC benefits in our state. The goal of this program is to provide easier access and conveniences- and every parent of young children wants the convenience while balancing work and life.” WIC members can select qualifying food items online in the Hy-Vee app and enter their eWIC card numbers during checkout. The WIC program was established nationwide in 1974, celebrating 50 years of supporting mothers, children, and families in Iowa, assisting them to live healthier lives. WIC provides supplemental nutritious food, health care referrals, breastfeeding support, and nutritional education to pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women and infants through age five children who are at nutritional risk.
