The Use and Impact of Federal Waivers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Summary Findings From Surveys of WIC State and Local Agencies
An evaluation of the impact of the USDA’s FFRCA waivers on the WIC program during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on how temporary flexibilities such as remote certification and relaxed physical presence requirements affected participant access, program operations, and staff capacity.
How WIC agencies implemented FFRCA waivers during the COVID-19 pandemic to maintain services while minimizing in-person contact.
It reviews flexibilities such as remote certification, physical presence waivers, and food package substitutions, assessing their effects on participant access, administrative efficiency, and equity. Findings indicate that these changes increased convenience, reduced barriers for participants, especially those in rural or underserved areas, and allowed staff to operate more efficiently. However, challenges included technology gaps, communication hurdles, and the need to balance program integrity with accessibility.
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