Through this rulemaking, FNS aims to improve the quality of race and ethnicity data collected and to ensure program benefits are distributed without regard to race, color, or national origin.
The Healthy Meals Incentives Initiative seeks to improve the nutritional quality of school meals through food systems transformation, SFA recognition and technical assistance, the generation and sharing of innovative ideas and tested practices.
USDA is implementing regulatory changes to the SFSP that simplify program requirements and improve the customer experience.
Through ARPA, USDA received waiver authority to support WIC and FMNP outreach, innovation, and modernization. Waivers are currently available to support WIC online shopping and ARPA funded projects.
At this time, only certain states are operating with online purchasing capabilities. FNS is working with other states interested in expanding online purchasing.
WIC staff should reflect the diversity and rich cultural experiences of WIC families. FNS has invested $31.5 million into a 5-year Inter-Agency Agreement with USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture to support the WIC workforce.
To make sure that eligible families know about WIC and the benefits it provides, FNS is investing in outreach.
We want WIC families to be able to shop simply and conveniently, just like other shoppers. FNS is supporting WIC state agencies as they modernize the shopping experience in store, online, and at farmers markets, through both funding and waivers.
Enrolling in and sticking with WIC helps families get the nutrition and healthcare they need to build a healthier future. FNS is working with state and federal partners to make the WIC journey, from start to finish, a smoother, more fulfilling experience for all participants by modernizing technology and service delivery.
This communication is intended to provide states with information about a change in the FNS accounting process for obligating SNAP funds.