(P02-011-25) Spatial Distribution of WIC-Authorized Stores in Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Neighborhoods Across the United States

Objectives: The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) targets socioeconomically disadvantaged families in the United States (US). Consequently, WIC families will likely reside in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods (SDNs). To date, research has not been done to examine the distribution of WIC-authorized stores by block group socioeconomic deprivation. Thus, the objective of this study was to examine the distribution of WIC stores focusing on SDNs (measured by Census Block Group) in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

Methods: We conducted a descriptive analysis, and we computed and mapped the percentage of WIC stores per state in SDNs using the Area Deprivation Index (ADI). This was done statewide and stratified by urban and rural neighborhoods to identify disparities in access.

Results: The results show differences across states and rurality in the distribution of stores by SDNs. The percentages of stores located in SDNs in some states suggest high accessibility to WIC stores for participants while other states suggest otherwise. For instance, states in the Southeast, including South Carolina, Alabama, and Mississippi had less than half of their WIC stores located in SDNs, indicative of limited access for WIC participants. In urban/rural analysis, 20 states in the Southeast had less than half of their WIC stores located in urban SDNs; notably, Mississippi, North Dakota, and South Carolina.

Conclusions: Geographic proximity to WIC stores plays a critical role in participation in the WIC program. The disparities in the distribution of WIC stores by socioeconomic deprivation across states as highlighted by this study have nutrition and health implications not only for WIC participants but also for those potentially eligible for the program.

Funding Sources: Not applicable