A significant change is coming for frum families in Monsey and across New York. For the first time, the New York State Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program will cover Cholov Yisroel infant formula, allowing eligible families to use their WIC benefits to purchase formula that meets their religious standards.
The New York State Department of Health announced that the first Cholov Yisroel infant formula will be added to the state’s WIC formulary later this month following approval by Governor Kathy Hochul and under the leadership of State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald.
The change is expected to benefit thousands of Orthodox Jewish families statewide, including many in Monsey, New Square, Spring Valley, Kaser, Kiryas Joel and other growing frum communities that rely on the WIC program.
Until now, New York’s WIC program covered dozens of infant formulas, but none were Cholov Yisroel-certified. That meant many eligible families were unable to use their WIC benefits for formula that met the kashrus standards observed in their homes.
According to Met Council, the issue was traced to a federal nutrition requirement, with previously available Cholov Yisroel formulas falling just 0.1 milligrams short of the USDA’s minimum iron requirement. After a three-year advocacy effort, a qualifying formula meeting all federal standards was identified and approved for the program.
Met Council CEO David Greenfield called the decision “life-changing” for families, saying it will ensure eligible mothers no longer have to choose between using their WIC benefits and maintaining their family’s Cholov Yisroel standards.
The first approved Cholov Yisroel formula is expected to become available through New York’s WIC program later this month, marking a historic milestone for frum families throughout the state.
