Blog2022-09-07T08:15:15-05:00

Texas WIC Expanded Fruit and Vegetable Benefits Extended To Nov. 17th

Texas WIC has announced that the expanded fruit and vegetable benefits will be extended through Nov. 17th. 

WIC clients are offered Cash Value Benefits through the WIC program. The extended benefits are:

  • Children get $26 each month 
  • Pregnant, postpartum women get $47 each month 
  • Breastfeeding WIC clients get $52 each month 

According to Texas WIC, all clients who receive benefits on or before November 17 will get the higher amounts for the entire month of November. 

“if you are pregnant and have two children (ages 1-5) receiving WIC, you will get $99 ($47 mom + $26 child + $26 child = $99) each month in October and November to buy fruit and vegetables,” according to the Texas WIC website. “If you already have benefits on your card for October and November contact your local WIC office for a time to update your benefits.” 

If changes are not approved by congress, the fruit and vegetable cash value benefit amount will return to its original levels on Nov. 18th. The original benefit levels are $12 for pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women and $10 for children ages 1 to 5.

Peach Smoothie

Sprinkle cinnamon on top of this tasty peach smoothie to make it the perfect fall treat while we’re still experiencing summer temperatures. Gather up these WIC-approved foods to make this refreshing treat. 

DELICIOUS PEACHY TREAT

1 cup vanilla yogurt

1 peach, sliced (or 1 cup frozen peaches)

1 banana

1 cup milk

1 cup ice

Cinnamon (optional)

Blend the first five ingredients. Pour into a cup and sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon.

Summer Smoothie Series: Coffee Smoothie

Delightful Summer Treat For Parents

Tired parents, listen up! Get ready to wake up and feel energized with this awesome coffee smoothie. Made with WIC ingredients + coffee, it’s the perfect way to recharge. Plus, it’s a refreshing treat you can enjoy any time of day. Just a heads up though, if you’re expecting or breastfeeding, remember to take it easy on the caffeine.

COFFEE SMOOTHIE

1 banana

⅓ cup peanut butter

1 cup of coffee, cooled to room temperature (you can use caffeinated or decaffeinated)

¾ cup of milk

1 ½ cups of ice

Blend & Enjoy!

Celebrating Labor Day Weekend: A Time To Recharge, Relax

Labor Day weekend is almost here! For Texas WIC mothers, this occasion offers a perfect opportunity to step back, recharge, and revel in the joys of this well-deserved break.

Honoring Your Labor

 As a mother on the WIC program, you are engaged in one of the most important jobs of all – nurturing and caring for your precious family. This Labor Day, take a moment to recognize the labor of love you invest in your family every single day.

Quality Time with Family

Labor Day weekend extends the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones. Whether you choose to have a picnic in a local park, organize a family barbecue, or simply have a movie night at home, cherish these moments together. Create memories that will last a lifetime and strengthen the bonds that make your family unique.

Relax and Rejuvenate

Labor Day weekend is also a prime time to practice self-care. As a devoted mother, you’re constantly putting the needs of others before your own. Use this break to prioritize your well-being. Whether it’s indulging in a soothing bubble bath, reading a book you’ve been meaning to delve into, or simply enjoying some quiet moments alone, remember that taking care of yourself is essential.

Embracing the End of Summer

As Labor Day weekend unofficially marks the end of summer, it’s a great opportunity to embrace the seasonal shift. Consider organizing a farewell-to-summer gathering with friends and family. Plan a potluck, where everyone brings a dish representing their favorite summer memory. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the past few months and welcome the autumn season with open arms.

Whether it’s spending time with family, exploring local gems, or simply enjoying moments of peace, embrace this opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate. Remember, your labor of love is worth celebrating, and this weekend is all about honoring the incredible efforts you put into your family every day.

Labor Day Recipe Ideas Using WIC Foods

Labor Day is a great time to enjoy delicious and hearty recipes with family and friends. Here are some recipes that you can make using WIC-approved ingredients, perfect for a Labor Day gathering:

CORN, TOMATO SALAD

Combine  the following in a bowl:

Corn kernels

Diced tomatoes

Chopped cilantro

Red onion

Dress with a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper for a refreshing summer salad.

CREAMY COLESLAW

Make coleslaw using shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and chopped apples. Create a creamy dressing using plain yogurt, a touch of mayonnaise, lemon juice, and a hint of honey (optional)

 

CARROT AND APPLE SLAW

¼ cup of Carrots, grated 

¼ cup of Apples, grated

¼ cup of Greek yogurt

2 tablespoons of honey

2 tablespoons lemon juice.

Grate carrots and apples. Mix with Greek yogurt, honey, and a splash of lemon juice. Refrigerate and serve as a refreshing side.

Summer Smoothie Series: Berry Smoothie

BERRY SMOOTHIE

1 cup vanilla yogurt

½ cup strawberries, chopped (fresh or frozen)

½ cup cherries, pitted (fresh or frozen)

½ cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

1 banana, peeled

1 cup milk

1 cup ice

Blend & enjoy!