OHA release - March is National Nutrition Month, and Oregon Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is celebrating by sharing its 2025 annual report. The report explains how WIC helps families get healthy food and supports communities across the state.  In 2025, families used almost $68 million in WIC benefits at 483 stores and pharmacies. These stores must carry healthy foods, which makes it easier for everyone in the community to find good options. WIC also helps set nutrition standards for foods sold in Oregon.  More choices for different needs:  WIC updated its food package to give families more choices. The new options follow the latest nutrition science and include foods that support different cultures and dietary needs. Families can now choose gluten-free, vegan, and allergen-friendly items.  Reaching more rural families:  WIC continues to be an important resource for rural areas. Nearly 37 percent of pregnant women in rural Oregon use WIC. New clinics opened in Gilliam County, Wallowa County, and Grand Ronde to bring services closer to home. This support is especially important as many families face rising food and housing costs.  WIC dollars strengthen local communities:  WIC also strengthens local communities. Many families use their benefits at farmers markets and farm stands through the Farm Direct Nutrition Program. In 2025, more than 40,000 WIC participants and 53,000 seniors used Farm Direct to buy fresh produce. Farmers say the program helps both small farms and local families.  Supporting parents and young children:  Along with food benefits, WIC offers nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and health screenings. Many parents say this guidance helps them feel more confident.  Last year, Oregon WIC served more than 119,000 people. This includes 86,000 infants and children.  To learn more about WIC, call 211 or visit healthoregon.org/wic.