Cap FM food expense (O)

The Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service awarded the California Department of Public Health $875,746 on October 1, 2025, under the WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (CFDA 10.572), a formula grant providing fresh, nutritious, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs to eligible WIC participants through approved farmers' markets and roadside stands in California.

The award funds food expenses under the program through September 30, 2026. Eligible WIC participants—pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5 found to be at nutritional risk—receive FMNP coupons in addition to regular WIC benefits, redeemable at state-approved farmers' markets and roadside stands. The program simultaneously expands market awareness and sales at participating vendors. Performance occurs statewide across California's 58 counties and 61 local health jurisdictions, with administrative oversight centered in Sacramento.