Big Sky Times

The Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has introduced new guidelines to enhance access to the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program for families benefiting from the traditional Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship. Families deemed eligible for these scholarships are now automatically financially eligible for WIC.

"Both of these programs serve many of the same families, so as a way to improve customer service we made the decision to streamline the eligibility process for families," stated Lacy Little, Montanan WIC program director. "This will make it easier for families to gain access to the nutritional food and support the WIC program provides."

Eligibility for WIC requires participants to be pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding, or have a child under five years old. The household income must be at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level or already approved for Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, or a free/reduced school meal program. The recent change includes adding the traditional Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship to this list.

The Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship aids Montana families in affording quality child care, enabling parents' fuller participation in the workforce. Families earning less than 185% of the Federal Poverty Level with children in licensed care are eligible and make co-payments based on income using a sliding fee scale.

This year marks WIC's 50th anniversary. DPHHS and local agencies have been actively working to connect with eligible families about all benefits provided by WIC. These include special food packages, peer counseling, lactation experts, baby food, breastfeeding support and pumps, access to trained staff, resources, and referrals. "All families need to do is call their local WIC office and schedule an appointment," Little said. "Local staff are eager to help with the enrollment process."

WIC in Montana comprises 34 local agencies and over 80 clinic sites serving all counties and tribal reservations. Nearly 13,400 women, infants, and children are enrolled in Montana; however, only 55% of eligible families participate in the program.

WIC was established in 1974 to assist families during critical growth periods by providing access to healthy food and educational resources without affecting SNAP or Medicaid benefits. Now it also aligns with the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship.

For more information on WIC eligibility or services offered by contacting local clinics or visiting online resources such as www.signupwic.com.