NEW CITY, NY — The Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) has been awarded $85,000 to support its “Fresh Start: WIC Access and Nutrition Equity Program,” which is designed to increase access to nutrition education and healthy food options for low-income families.
The funding, provided by the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, will support program enhancements including the hiring of additional staff. These staff members will focus on providing nutrition education and promoting the use of local farmers’ markets among Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) participants.
According to the health department, the Fresh Start initiative is intended to reduce obstacles that can prevent eligible individuals from accessing WIC services and nutritious foods, particularly fresh fruits and vegetables.
Currently, the Rockland WIC program operates across four locations—Haverstraw, Monsey, New Square, and Spring Valley—and serves more than 20,000 women, infants, and children.
The funding is set to be distributed over the course of one year, from January 1 to December 31, 2026. Opportunities for renewal or extended support may be considered in the future.
Rockland County Commissioner of Health Dr. Mary Leahy expressed appreciation for the grant, noting that the resources could help improve health outcomes for young families enrolled in the WIC program.
For more information on the WIC program or eligibility, residents are encouraged to contact the Rockland County Department of Health.