Food Security & Nutrition Services
FAMILY/CAREGIVER SUPPORT
Services that address the health and wellbeing - physical, behavioral, social, and economic - of parents, families, and caregivers of young children
To ensure healthy child growth and development, proper nutrition is key. It is vital that families have information on healthy eating for their family as well as nutritional support to help sustain their dietary needs. Federal and state governmental agencies provide a range of programs to support a family’s wellbeing.
Equity Considerations
With multiple federal and state nutrition programs available, as well as many programs having their own application process, accessing information on each program and its particular benefits may be a challenge, particularly for those who do not speak English or carry social capital regarding program access.
FAMILY/CAREGIVER SUPPORT
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
WIC is a nutrition program that provides healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to healthcare and other services, free of charge, to Massachusetts families who qualify. Families with an income less than WIC guidelines, have children under 5, and/or pregnant or breastfeeding parents qualify for benefits.
Ages
Birth - 5th Birthday
Usage
Geography
Statewide
Professionals
Nutritionists, Breastfeeding Counselors, and Lactation Consultants
Settings
Grocery Stores, Program Centers (in person and virtual services), Pharmacies, Convenience Stores, and Farmers Markets
Oversight, Guidance, Or Regulation
MA Department of Public Health
United States Department of Agriculture
Systems gap
Support from WIC ends on a child's 5th birthday. If a child turns 5 but has not yet entered school, this can cause a gap in guaranteed meals between when WIC services end and when a child is eligible for free food programs through their school.
FAMILY/CAREGIVER SUPPORT
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP provides eligible low-income families with money to spend on food through Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Cards. SNAP is a federally funded program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and locally overseen by the Department of Transitional Assistance.
Ages
All Ages
Usage
Geography
Statewide
Professionals
N/A
Settings
Grocery Stores, Program Settings, Pharmacies, Convenience Stores, and Farmers Markets
Oversight, Guidance, or Regulation
MA Department of Transitional Assistance
United States Department of Agriculture
FAMILY/CAREGIVER SUPPORT
Free Breakfast and Lunch Programs
