New Benefits Card Launch: Streamlining Missouri’s Food Assistance Program for Better Access

In Hannibal, Missouri, the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program has made accessing healthy food even easier for families. This income-based program helps combat hunger by providing nutritious options to those who qualify for benefits like SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid.

Gone are the days of using chip cards that needed to be loaded at specific stations. The new WIC cards come equipped with magnetic strips, allowing benefits to be added remotely. This change eliminates the hassle of frequent trips to reload cards, making it more convenient for families.

Misty Sutton, a WIC certifier at the Marion County Health Department, highlights the positive impact of these new cards. “It saves families the trouble of transportation, especially for those who might not have reliable access to it,” she says.

Local WIC-approved stores include County Market, Save A Lot, and Walmart. With rising grocery prices, the demand for food assistance has increased. WIC Coordinator Crystal McWilliams notes, “We’ve significantly raised the cash value participants receive for fresh fruits and vegetables. This has been a tremendous help.” Recent research indicates that food prices have surged, making programs like WIC crucial in supporting families in need.

The new cards integrate with the WICShopper mobile app, where users can view their card details and track benefits. The app features a barcode scanner, helping users quickly identify WIC-eligible items in stores, as well as store locators and appointment visibility.

Best of all, the new WIC cards are provided at no cost. Marion County residents interested in the program are encouraged to contact the health department to determine eligibility and sign up.

As hunger rates rise and food prices climb, programs like WIC remain vital in providing assistance to families across Missouri. These changes not only streamline the process but also reflect a broader commitment to ensuring nutritional support for those who need it most.

For more information about the WIC program, check official resources like the [Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services](https://health.mo.gov) that detail available services and eligibility requirements.

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