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NUTRITION SERVICES Goals & Objectives, FY2027 | 13

H. Disseminate helpful tips and resources and published scientific research findings relevant to the health, well-being and nutrition education of WIC participants to local program nutrition staff.

I. In collaboration with TLC, develop and offer training opportunities to promote staff cultural competency and ability to identify culturally specific health beliefs, nutrition practices and other key elements among the different ethnic groups and communities in Massachusetts.

J. In collaboration with TLC, develop and offer training opportunities for nutrition staff on advanced nutrition topics.

K. Collaborate with TLC to maintain training and nutrition education components of the WIC TLC website and the TRAIN platform.

L. Ensure equitable access to WIC services by improving language and images in nutrition education materials and participating in task force activities aimed at addressing WIC access.

M. Provide local programs with ongoing support for the WIC Developmental Monitoring Program and evaluate project implementation and outcomes to determine program effectiveness.

N. Provide ongoing training and technical assistance to local program staff on the use of Eos and implement recommendations for improvements to the health and nutrition components of the system (Eos 9.1, 9.2).

O. Update and revise the Nutrition Services sections of the Program Manual (PM) in response to pertinent new federal regulations, FNA instructions and guidance, updates to Massachusetts WIC service standards, and any new state initiatives or guidance. Provide technical assistance to local program nutrition staff on state policies, procedures, reports, and materials, as needed.

P. Support local agencies in recruiting and retaining quality nutrition staff, including reaching out to local colleges, universities and dietetic internships to promote employment opportunities at local WIC programs.

Q. Support maintenance of nutrition credentials and knowledge of current nutrition science through a variety of continuing education opportunities and reimbursement support for credential renewal.

R. Continue to provide technical assistance to local programs to better meet the needs of participants through alternatives to traditional nutrition education methods, including through the use of WICSmart for low-risk children and older infants.

S. Provide technical assistance and guidance to local programs as they continue to use a hybrid model to provide nutrition services, including innovative ways of using Teletask and OnBase to communicate with and collect documentation from participants.