WIC Booklet 2020: Streamlined Remote Certification Options Guidance

In partnership with the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities and the Altarum Institute, a new guidance document has been developed to help streamline remote certification options for WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) participants. The guide is designed to provide state agencies and other stakeholders with a centralized source of information on approved and denied waivers across multiple states.

The National WIC Waiver Tracker, developed by the Milken Institute Center for Public Health in partnership with NWA (National WIC Association), aims to address the gap in available resources for state agencies and stakeholders. Prior to its development, there was no central location where individuals could access information on approved or denied waivers across multiple states.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in requests from state WIC agencies seeking waivers from FNS (Food and Nutrition Service) to ensure continued access to food benefits and other WIC services while maintaining safe social distancing guidelines. The National WIC Waiver Tracker provides an updated list of approved and denied waivers by state, region, waiver type, response status, and date.

This consolidated source of information enables state agencies and stakeholders to connect with other states dealing with similar concerns and best utilize their time when applying for new waivers. Additionally, the tracker provides a categorized list of waivers, making it easier to navigate and understand the data.

As part of its efforts to support WIC participants during the pandemic, NWA has also released several resources, including 'Centering Black Mamas: The Right to Live and Thrive,' 'WIC & Health Resources for Native Peoples,' 'Preparing for Reopening: Considerations for Adjusting WIC Clinic Operations throughout COVID-19,' 'Summary: State and Local WIC Agency Concerns with Reopening Clinics during COVID-19,' 'Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Regarding the Reopening of WIC Clinics,' and 'Reopening WIC: Additional Steps Need to Be Taken to Address Clinic Concerns.'

The National WIC Waiver Tracker is updated weekly and can be accessed on the FNS WIC: COVID-19 Waivers by State webpage. The tracker is an invaluable resource for state agencies, stakeholders, and WIC participants seeking information on approved and denied waivers during the pandemic.

For any shareable resources or updates, please contact Emily Gilcher, Education and Membership Engagement Manager, at .

Wic booklet 2020