USVI WIC Program Rolls Out Updated Food Packages With Higher Produce Benefits and More Options

The V.I. Department of Health says families enrolled in the Women, Infants, and Children program will now have access to updated food packages that offer more flexibility and stronger nutritional support, as the territory rolls out the final phase of WIC food package modernization. The changes include a permanent increase in fruit and vegetable benefits and an expanded list of approved foods, part of a nationwide U.S. Department of Agriculture effort to improve access to healthy options for mothers and children.

According to the Department of Health, the updated packages are intended to improve nutritional value for participating families while giving them more choices in the foods they can bring home.

Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion said the changes support the department’s broader goals for women and children’s health.

“The Department of Health welcomes these enhancements, which align directly with our mission to reduce health risks and improve outcomes for women and children,” she said. “Research consistently shows that WIC is effective in supporting healthier families, and these updates further strengthen the program by expanding access to wholesome, nutritious foods.”

Among the main changes is a permanent increase in the cash value benefit, or CVB, for fruits and vegetables. According to the release, participants will continue receiving higher monthly support of about $25 to $49, depending on their category.

The department also announced additional updates to the approved food list, including whole grain pasta, cornmeal, canned fish such as tuna, and yogurt. Officials said the changes reflect the latest science-based nutritional guidelines.

“These changes give our participants more flexibility and better options to serve healthy meals at home,” said Lorna Concepcion, director of the WIC Program. “The increase in the cash value benefit for fruits and vegetables, along with expanded whole grain choices, supports families in making healthier everyday decisions.”

The release says the changes are part of the final phase of food package modernization in the U.S. Virgin Islands and align with a broader USDA initiative to ensure WIC families have access to nutritious foods that support positive health outcomes for both mothers and children.

According to the department, participants in the U.S. Virgin Islands can begin accessing the updated food benefits that became available Friday, April 17, 2026.

The release also states that WIC’s nutrition education, breastfeeding support programs, and access to healthy foods reflect the territory’s continued commitment to supporting the health and well-being of women, infants, and young children.

For more information or to apply for WIC benefits, the department directs residents to doh.vi.gov or to contact their local WIC clinic at 340-718-9157 or 340-776-1770.