Health and Nutrition Resources
We know health is important, but hectic schedules and the rising cost of medical care and nutritious foods can mean healthcare takes a backseat to other priorities in a woman’s life. Medicaid and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children may help make healthcare a priority.
Medicaid: Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans, including some low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. This program offers coverage of a wide range of primary, preventive, specialty, and long-term care services that are important to women across their lifespans. Notably, women covered under Medicaid have regular access to pap smears, mammograms, and other preventative services critical to women’s health. For women aged 65 or older, Medicare is also an excellent healthcare program that can provide long-term coverage of women’s health services.
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC): WIC provides supplemental foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and access to health and social services to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, and to infants and children up to age five. This program takes a comprehensive approach to ensuring the health and wellness of women and their young children. Women enrolled in WIC tend to have earlier access to prenatal care, better nutritional intake, and overall healthier babies. Women or mothers with children over the age of five may also qualify for other nutrition assistance programs such as SNAP or TANF.
Business Resources
Women own about 42% of U.S. businesses, but they still face obstacles in the business world, often related to funding. The U.S. Small Business Administration provides business training, counseling, and access to financial assistance to help women launch new businesses and compete in the marketplace. Women-owned small businesses can also take advantage of SBA loan programs.
|
Find More Resources Supporting Women
The Department of Labor’s Women’s Bureau champions policies and standards that protect the interests of working women, advocates for the equality and economic security of women and their families, and promotes quality work environments. One of their initiatives includes apprenticeship programs for women, including opportunities in nontraditional fields. These programs expand pathways for women into successful careers and economic independence.
|
***Credit to Benefits.gov Newsletter