HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — More families in Alabama may now be eligible for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. On Monday, the Alabama Department of Public Health released the new income guidelines.

The new guidelines are in effect from April 15th, 2024 through June 30th, 2025.

The WIC program offers assistance for families to help provide access to fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, as well as other resources.

The increase in income guidelines is likely a relief for many families, as grocery prices are still on the rise.

“Under the 2024 federal poverty guidelines, more families may be eligible for the program,” the Alabama Department of Public Health said in a news release. WIC is open to participants with incomes up to 185 percent of the federal poverty level.

The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) defines a family of two as a woman pregnant with one child, or a parent/guardian of one child under 5 years old.

The income threshold for a family of 2 for 2024 is an annual income of $37,814 or less. That’s up from the 2023 threshold of $36,482 a year for a family of 2.

In addition to meeting the income guidelines, you must be an Alabama resident and be seen by a health professional at a WIC clinic to qualify.

If you’re interested in the program you are urged to contact your county health department to make an appointment.

You can read the full press release & income guidelines from ADPH by clicking here.