This memorandum seeks to ensure that current Food and Nutrition Service guidance pertaining to federal civil rights and nondiscrimination obligations remains aligned with applicable laws, regulations, executive orders and directives relevant to the agency’s 16 nutrition assistance programs.
In July 1982, Congress authorized a capped block grant program in Puerto Rico, called the Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP). Previously, Puerto Rico ran the traditional Food Stamp Program.
WIC is not designed to be a disaster assistance program, and is, therefore, not considered a first response option for disaster survivors. WIC policies allow state agencies flexibility in program design and administration to support continuation of benefits to participants during times of natural or other disasters. WIC state agencies are encouraged to work with state and local emergency services offices, as well as FEMA, to assist participants during a disaster.
Summary of Nutrition Assistance Program - Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands
WIC was established as a permanent program in 1974 to safeguard the health of low-income women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk. This mission is carried out by providing nutritious foods to supplement diets, nutrition education (including breastfeeding promotion and support), and referrals to health and other social services.
Summary of Nutrition Assistance Program – American Samoa
Stewardship of federal funds is a basic expectation of American taxpayers and is critical to the ongoing success of nutrition assistance programs. FNA continuously works to detect, prevent, and minimize errors and improper payments, as well as fraud, waste, or abuse. In this way, FNA preserves public trust, enhances partner relationships, and provides excellent customer service to program participants.
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children serves low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk. WIC provides participants with nutritious foods to supplement participant diets, nutrition education, and referrals to health and other social services.
In the event of a Presidential Disaster Declaration, we can procure and provide an emergency supply of infant formula and food to supplement a state’s or FEMA's disaster feeding efforts.
GAO Report to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry U.S. Senate on Nutrition Education: USDA Provides Services through Multiple Programs, but Stronger Linkages among Efforts Are Needed