No existing data source can provide all of the information needed to complete the evaluation. Existing WIC information system databases from the six States will be used to construct the survey sample frames and to obtain demographic data on participants and WIC vendors affected by cost containment. Computer-assisted telephone interviewing will be used to minimize respondent burden and interviewer error in the Survey of WIC Participants. Focus group samples will be drawn from a limited geographic area to minimize travel time and expense for focus group participants. The survey questionnaire and screener and local agency interviews will be kept as simple and respondent-friendly as possible.
Responses are voluntary and confidential.
Survey and interview data will be combined with other data for statistical purposes and reported only in aggregate or statistical form. Responses to the Survey of WIC participants are estimated to average 30 minutes. Responses from WIC participants who did not pick up their WIC vouchers are estimated at 5 minutes, on average, for a screening interview and an average of 90 minutes for the focus group session. The Survey of Food Prices will involve an estimated 15 minutes of time from the store cashier for scanning. Responses by local agency WIC staff are estimated to total 60 minutes, on average.