Resource Data Data Sharing

Matching Data Across Benefits Programs Can Increase WIC Enrollment

This case study highlights how states used data sharing and targeted outreach to boost WIC enrollment among Medicaid and SNAP participants, improving program reach and reducing disparities.

Organizations: Benefits Data Trust, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP)

Authors: Jess Maneely, Zoë Neuberger

Published Year: 2021

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Pilot projects in four states—Colorado, Massachusetts, Montana, and Virginia—demonstrated that matching Medicaid and SNAP data to identify families not enrolled in WIC, then sending targeted outreach messages, effectively increased WIC enrollment.

The report outlines the benefits of WIC for health equity, steps for implementing cross-agency data sharing agreements, and key considerations for protecting privacy and maintaining program integrity. It also presents lessons learned and strategies for incorporating data-driven outreach into routine operations to better connect families to nutrition assistance.