How can WIC agencies be supported in their modernization efforts?

Challenge

State and local Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) agencies currently navigate a fragmented landscape of digital services, creating disparities in program delivery. To bridge this gap, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) is building a more cohesive, modern digital infrastructure through comprehensive technical assistance, user-friendly resources, and personalized one-on-one support, informing agencies on how to better serve their communities.

Solutions

Westat will support Clarity 24 in this work. Drawing on its long history of successful support of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and WIC, Westat brings its expertise to inform WIC modernization by developing resources to support WIC digital services. Using an agile discovery approach and technical working groups of WIC subject matter experts, Westat will collaborate with FNS to identify the unique needs and constraints across every stage of the digital service process. This includes learning and then co-creating materials to support WIC state and local agency modernization efforts.

The Westat team, which includes former state and federal WIC and SNAP program administrators, will identify the needs of WIC agency staff, human-centered design practices, and digital development standards to create toolkits and resources to support agencies in their modernization journeys. Clarity 24 and Westat will complete their work in sprints using continuous process improvement approaches to ensure all resources are user-tested and effectively meet the needs of WIC state and local agencies.

Westat’s deep bench of experts will additionally develop and provide technical assistance, including training and one-on-one support, to WIC agency staff. This technical assistance will build agency capacity around digital services and ensure WIC state and local agencies are equipped to procure and sustain their modernization efforts for the benefit of the program and the participants they serve.

Results

Through this transformative project, Westat will inform WIC state agencies and staff with cutting-edge tools and expertise, creating a seamless and modern digital experience for all participants.

This initiative is not just about technology; it’s about revolutionizing the way WIC reaches the families it serves. By aligning with USDA’s plan for food and nutrition program modernization, Westat is at the forefront of a movement that prioritizes innovative digital solutions. These advancements will enhance efficiency, elevate participant experiences, and significantly improve program delivery.

This work will help modernize nutrition programs and pave the way for a stronger, healthier nation.