Government Shutdown Poses Risks to WIC and Food Assistance Programs
As the government shutdown continues, concerns grow over the funding of vital food assistance programs like WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). The USDA has informed lawmakers that WIC will be funded through October, with a $300 million allocation to keep the program running. However, many families are worried about potential food insecurity, with reports indicating that nearly 50,000 Iowa children could lose food aid if the shutdown persists. States like North Carolina and Alaska confirm that they will continue providing WIC and SNAP benefits for the time being. The White House has proposed using tariff revenue to support federal food aid, although questions remain about its feasibility. Some nonprofit organizations are preparing for a possible crisis, while lawmakers urge state governors to safeguard WIC programs amid the ongoing uncertainty.
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