New guidelines have expanded access to the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants & Children (WIC) in Oakland County, potentially offering support to more families.
The updated regulations, which went into effect on June 1, 2025, raise the income threshold, enabling more families to qualify for the program. The move is expected to help ease food insecurity for pregnant women, new mothers, and young children.
New Guidelines Broaden Access to Vital Nutritional Support
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has set new income guidelines for WIC, providing greater opportunity for families to access the program’s benefits. A family of four can now qualify for WIC if their annual gross income is $59,478 or less.
This is a significant change, as the income limit has increased, meaning more families are now eligible to receive food assistance.
WIC provides essential services including nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to community resources, all of which are designed to improve the health of pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age five.
According to Kate Guzmán, Oakland County’s health officer, families who have previously been ineligible for the program may now qualify, and she urges them to reach out to a local office to explore their options.
The program aims to combat food insecurity by offering nutritious foods, such as milk, eggs, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Families in need receive these benefits through a Michigan WIC EBT card, which they can use at participating grocery stores and pharmacies.
The amount a family receives depends on their size and food package choices, ranging from $70 to $250 per month.
A Community-Based Approach to Tackling Food Insecurity
WIC’s expansion not only helps with direct nutritional support but also ensures that families have access to a wide range of health services and community resources. As of 2025, nearly 40% of infants in the U.S. benefit from WIC, demonstrating its broad impact.
Beyond providing food, the program also offers important health screenings, referrals to healthcare providers, and client-centered services designed to meet the specific needs of families. The new guidelines are particularly beneficial for those already receiving Medicaid or SNAP benefits, as these families automatically meet the WIC income criteria.
Oakland County residents have access to eight WIC offices across the region, ensuring that services are widely available. Families who may qualify for the program can visit these offices or call the WIC hotline at 248-858-1272 for more information and assistance in determining eligibility.
By broadening its eligibility, WIC continues to support the health and well-being of the county’s most vulnerable populations, helping to ensure that children and mothers have access to the nutrition they need for healthy development.
