With the rollout of updated California Women, Infants and Children Program cards featuring a quick response (QR) code, participants can now shop for fruits and vegetables directly from local farmers. Photo courtesy of Placer County

 

AUBURN, CA (MPG) - Women, Infants and Children Program families in Placer County now have a fresh way to use their benefits — literally. With the rollout of updated California Women, Infants and Children Program cards featuring a quick response (QR) code, participants can now shop for fruits and vegetables directly from local farmers at Women, Infants and Children Program-authorized farmers’ markets. Find a participating location near you online, or on the Women, Infants and Children Program app.

The new QR-enabled card from Women, Infants and Children Program allows families to use their monthly fruits and vegetables benefit to purchase fresh, seasonal produce from local vendors. This option supports both healthy eating and Placer County’s agricultural economy by making it easier for families to access high-quality, locally-grown food.

“This update to the WIC card means greater access to healthy, local produce and stronger support for our community’s farmers,” said Marcia Barnes, Placer County WIC program supervisor. “It’s a win-win for families and agriculture.”

The QR code — located on the front of the card — is scanned by farmers at checkout. Families confirm their purchase by entering a PIN, and the cost is deducted from their monthly benefit balance, just like at the grocery store. The magnetic stripe on the back of the card continues to be used for traditional in-store purchases, while the new QR feature is specifically designed for use at participating farmers’ markets.

The Women, Infants and Children Program fruits and vegetables benefit amounts are:

$26 per month for children ages 1 to 5.

$47 per month for pregnant and postpartum individuals.

$52 per month for individuals who are breastfeeding.

$78 per month for individuals breastfeeding more than one infant.

These benefits are available year-round and can be used to purchase fresh and organic fruits and vegetables. Frozen or dried produce is not eligible.

To pick up a new Women, Infants and Children Program card or ask questions about the program, contact Placer County Women, Infants and Children Program at 916-784-6447 or email [email protected].