The purpose of this study was to identify barriers to retention of infants and children on WIC; that is, to identify barriers that deter parents/caretakers from continuing to participate in WIC, despite the continued eligibility of their infant or child.

WIC seeks to improve fetal development and reduce the incidence of low birthweight, short gestation, and anemia through intervention during the prenatal period. This publication is the seventh report in the series of studies on WIC participants and program characteristics.