WIC Services During COVID-19
San Diego Research Foundation WIC Program
Frequently Asked Fruit & Vegetable Increase Questions
By when would I have it in my WIC card ?
The $35 increase will be automatically added to your June through September food balance. You will see this change starting in June. Please remember to shop for all of the foods in your WIC food balance within the allowed dates.
What is WIC’s Cash Value Benefit?
The fruit and vegetable cash-value benefit (CVB) allows participants to purchase vegetables and fruits as part of their WIC food package. Normally, the monthly fruit and vegetable benefit is $9 per child and $11 for pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding participants.
What are the recent changes to the Cash Value Benefit (CVB) or Fruit and Vegetable Benefit?
On March 11, 2021, President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) into law. As part of the act, the Fruit and Vegetable Benefit will increase to $35 per month for four months starting June 2021.
Who is eligible for the fruit and vegetable benefit increase?
Women and children 1 year and older who are participating in WIC.
How long will we get this fruit and vegetable benefit increase?
The increase will be for 4 months, for benefits issued in June, July, August, and September 2021. Eligible participants will see the increase to $35 on their food balance starting June 1st.
Why is it only happening for 4 months?
The American Rescue Plan only allows for this temporary fruit and vegetable increase to last for four months.
Do I need to do anything to see the changes?
- No. The fruit and vegetable benefit will automatically be increased for all eligible participants between June and September.
- Eligible families will be able to see the increase in their food balance in the CA WIC App. Please make sure to have the most recent version of the app on your phone (version 1.1).
Frequently Asked APPOINTMENT Questions
When will we be going back to in person appointments?
For the time being we are conducting ALL WIC appointments over the phone until further notice. We will inform you with any updates as they are released.
Will I still have my WIC appointment?
Yes, if you were scheduled for an appointment, we are continuing to complete all appointments by phone.
Are WIC services still being provided at this time?
Yes, we are currently providing WIC services by phone only. All our WIC clinics are closed to in-person appointments.
If you are looking to apply for WIC, please click here.
When will I be receiving a call for my appointment?
We will attempt to call you around the time of your scheduled appointment.
What do I need to have ready for my appointment?
Depending on the specific appointment type, you may need different documentation. For certifications please have: proof of income, address, and photo ID, proof of pregnancy (if applicable), immunization records (if applicable) nearby. Our counselors will let you know over the phone what is required for your appointment.
If I missed my call for my appointment, what number do I call to complete my appointment?
If you missed an appointment and we left you a message, please call the number we left you in your message. If we were unable to leave you a message, please contact us at 1-888-999-6897.
Frequently Asked CA WIC CARD Questions
How do I replace my WIC Card?
Call us at our main number, 1.888.999.6897 and we will be able to further assist you. After verifying information we will be able to send you a new card through the mail.
How Do I Check my Food Balance?
If you want to know your Food Balance, there are a couple of ways to find out:
- Call the phone number on the back of your WIC card: 1-844-4MY-FAMILY (1-844-469-3264).
- Use the free CA WIC App on your smartphone. (iPhone) (Android)
- Ask the cashier or customer service desk at the store to print out your WIC Food Balance (Inquiry Receipt).
- Look at your store receipt from your last shopping trip. The last portion of the receipt will show your ending balance and what benefits remain on your WIC Card.
Frequently Asked SHOPPING Questions
How can I find a WIC authorized grocery store?
Click here for a directory of WIC approved grocery stores that currently accept the California WIC card.
How do I check my WIC Food balance?
If you want to know your Food Balance, there are a couple of ways to find out:
- Call the phone number on the back of your WIC card: 1-844-4MY-FAMILY (1-844-469-3264).
- Use the free CA WIC App on your smartphone. (iPhone) (Android)
- Ask the cashier or customer service desk at the store to print out your WIC Food Balance (Inquiry Receipt).
- Look at your store receipt from your last shopping trip. The last portion of the receipt will show your ending balance and what benefits remain on your WIC Card.
How do I know if an item of food is WIC authorized?
Use the free CA WIC App to scan your WIC foods before heading to the register. Scanning an item will tell you if it is WIC approved, and if it is a current benefit on your card.
What do I do if I’m having issues at the store?
If you’re having trouble getting your WIC foods at the store, call the WIC Card Shopper Support line at 1-800-852-5770 for assistance from a live support person from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday through Friday (not including holidays).
v. What combination of juice containers will allow me to get all the juice on my food balance?
