A program that provides supplemental nutrition and health information for women, infants and preschool children will be more convenient in April.

Instead of monthly paper vouchers that tells them which food items they are allotted, WIC clients will soon access food benefits with a debit card.

According to county health administrator Diedre Serene, this means clients won’t have to buy everything, including four gallons of milk, during a single shopping trip.

A cash register receipt will show WIC items purchased and remaining items still available. They can also know their benefit balance before going to the grocery store.

Similar to a card used for the food stamp program, the card is safer and more secure than paper vouchers.

The card also means health department staff will no longer have to void unused benefits.

WIC is available for pregnant and breastfeeding women, new moms, and kids under 5 who meet income requirements.