BOX 2-1Summary of Literature Findings on Barriers to WIC Participation and Redemption

Barriers to Participation

• Long wait times; crowded physical environment
• Lack of transportation
• Belief that family is ineligible; changing eligibility restrictions
• Program requires too much effort, difficult paperwork
• Language barriers

Barriers to Redemption

• Embarrassment, negative interactions in stores
• Gaps in knowledge (e.g., determining amount of F/V with CVV)
• Limited selection of WIC foods at local vendors; products not available in allowable forms
• Vendor challenges anticipating demand and maintaining adequate supply of some WIC foods
• Maintaining food freshness at the vendor (particularly small vendors)

SOURCE: See Appendix G, Table G-1.