Can targeted transfers improve birth outcomes? Evidence from the introduction of the WIC program
Authors:
Ann Huff Stevens, Hilary Hoynes, Maryann Page
Tags:
anti poverty programs, infant health, low birth weight, pregnant women, public assistance, targeted nutritional assistance, WIC
Journal:
Journal of Public Economics
Year Published:
2010
Policy Summary
This study examines the rollout of WIC programs across various counties to measure the impact on infant health. It found an increase in birth weight and decrease in low birth weight babies following WIC initiation. This provides further evidence that targeted nutritional assistance aimed at pregnant women can produce economically and statistically measurable improvements.
