The grocery chain announced the change as it expands payment options for WIC customers in Michigan. The program allows participating women, infants and children to use their benefits through digital shopping services provided by Meijer.
Around 187,000 women, infants and children take part in WIC in Michigan, according to the state’s Department of Health and Human Services. The program is a sister program to SNAP and provides benefits to eligible families.
Meijer Adds Online Use of WIC Benefits Through Its App and Website
Meijer announced last week that WIC customers can now use their benefits when placing grocery orders through the retailer’s app and website. The option applies to both delivery and pickup services.
According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Meijer is the first retailer in Michigan to provide this service for WIC participants.
Michigan WIC Director Christina Herring said the partnership represents a step toward modernizing the WIC shopping experience by expanding digital access, reducing barriers and giving families more flexibility when redeeming their benefits.
Michigan Health Officials Plan to Expand the Service
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said it plans to expand the service to more retailers in the state.
The announcement comes as other states introduce updates to how WIC benefits can be used. In Louisiana, shoppers recently saw WIC upgrades with the introduction of new EBT cards.
The changes in Louisiana allow WIC clinics to prescribe quarterly benefits remotely.
Other States Introduce Online Grocery Options for WIC Customers
As reported by The SUN, Michigan’s update follows similar moves in other parts of the United States. Massachusetts and Washington State also allow customers to use WIC benefits to subsidize online grocery orders.
According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, expanding digital access is part of efforts to provide more flexibility for families using WIC benefits.
Meijer’s new service gives WIC participants in Michigan another way to use their benefits when ordering groceries through digital platforms.
