WVXU: UC/Children’s pilot new WIC enrollment method to reach the eligible
A new QR code at Cincinnati Children's locations makes signing up for WIC easier
Many women and children eligible for federal assistance have language and access barriers. It’s a hinderance that could explain part of why more than 50% of those eligible in Ohio are not enrolled in the WIC program, also known as Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, however, are working to make enrollment easier through technology. The researchers have been awarded an 18-month, $326,712 U.S. Department of Agriculture grant to introduce a new online referral system to apply for WIC benefits. The system will allow families to use QR codes to start the WIC application process and for the application to be available in English and several non-English preferred languages.
UC researcher Cathy Stough told WVXU there are now six pilot QR stations at family health clinics, with plans for expansion to more clinics.
"We're actually going to develop a sort of standard operating procedure manual of how we do this, so that if another clinic is interested, we don't even have to go through lots of long meetings to teach you how we did it," says Stough, an assistant professor of psychology and director of UC's Healthy Bearcat Families Lab.
Featured image at top by Kelly Sikkema/Unsplash
Impact Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
UC's art collection on display at the Contemporary Arts Center
January 5, 2026
University of Cincinnati leaders joined WVXU's Cincinnati Edition to talk about the university’s 200-year-old art collection, a new exhibition at the Contemporary Arts Center and the release of a companion book exploring the collection’s role in education and public engagement.
UC faculty and staff among Rising Star leadership honorees
January 5, 2026
Two UC faculty and staff members are among this year's Rising Star leadership program sponsored by YWCA Greater Cincinnati. Kelli Beecher, assistant professor in the UC College of Nursing, and Brittany Bibb, assistant director of programs and operations in the UC Division of Student Affairs, are among the emerging leaders of 2026. They were featured in the publication Movers & Makers.
What's behind the mysterious rise of migraines?
January 5, 2026
Weather patterns such as extreme heat and storm conditions have been linked to migraine attacks, and research shows those environmental conditions are becoming more common. As National Geographic recently reported, one of the leading theories behind this mysterious rise is that climate change may be playing a role.