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 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.
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.