Using WIC Produce Connection benefits at farmer's markets and roadside stands
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EmailWIC Produce Connection provides fresh, local produce to Michigan WIC clients, while promoting Michigan-grown agriculture.
The Michigan Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program, run by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and WIC Division of the United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service, supports the health and nutrition of pregnant and postpartum parent, infants and children under five. In addition to offering nutrition education, breast/chestfeeding support and health care referrals, Michigan WIC also offers a farmer's market nutrition program to promote Michigan-grown fruits and vegetables.
WIC Produce Connection increases access to fresh fruits and vegetables to WIC clients, who are low-income and nutritionally at-risk. Consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables is part of a healthy dietary pattern and may improve pregnancy outcomes. The impact of a healthy diet on both the pregnant parent and baby can continue to shape future phases of life.
The WIC Produce Connection program helps connect families who use WIC with Michigan farmers. WIC clients can purchase unprepared, eligible, Michigan-grown produce—including fresh herbs, mushrooms and pie pumpkins—from authorized growers at markets and roadside stands. Eligible WIC clients will receive $30, with a maximum of $60 per family, loaded directly onto their WIC card. In addition, clients can now use their monthly WIC Cash Value Benefits (CVB) at authorized growers, even if they are not enrolled in the WIC Produce Connection program. WIC CVB are monthly WIC funds used to buy fruits and vegetables, while WIC Produce Connection expands seasonal access to fruits and vegetables. WIC Produce Connection benefits run from June 1-November 30, while WIC CVB can be used at authorized growers year-round. Clients can check with their local WIC office on how to participate in WIC Produce Connection.
To locate WIC authorized growers, look for their signs at the market (see image below).
Once at the register, clients simply swipe their WIC cards and enter their PIN. An up-to-date list of WIC Authorized Growers is available on the Michigan WIC Produce Connection website.
To support WIC clients in making the most of their WIC Produce Connection benefits, MSU Extension created a client-focused video that highlights how the program works at a WIC authorized grower. Contact your local Michigan State University Extension office for support and/or classes on how to make the most of your benefits and learn how to plan and prepare healthy meals on a budget!
