Dept. of Health receives second round of funding for food assistance program in Washington

The Washington Department of Health confirmed it received additional funding for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program during the ongoing government shutdown. This funding from the U. S. Department of Agriculture guarantees that WIC benefits will be available through the end of October, alleviating concerns that the program would quickly deplete its resources. Previously, lawmakers indicated that SNAP benefits would continue, while WIC funding faced uncertainty.

Approximately 5,000 residents in Whatcom County participated in the program last year, highlighting its local significance. However, some WIC offices may experience temporary closures due to the shutdown, prompting the Department of Health to advise program users accordingly. The DOH will provide updates if any changes occur regarding the timeline for WIC benefits. WIC supports access to healthy food and various services for pregnant individuals, new parents, and children under the age of five, making this funding crucial for vulnerable families. The ongoing support reflects a commitment to maintaining essential food assistance during challenging times.