WAs food aid program for infants and mothers now funded through October

Washington's Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program will continue providing food benefits through the end of October, thanks to federal funding from the U. S. Department of Agriculture during the government shutdown. Local health officials stated that the program had only a week or two of funding left prior to this announcement. The additional funds specifically cover food benefits, leaving other crucial services underfunded.

Some WIC clinics in Washington have temporarily closed, causing concern about service accessibility. Nutrition First has called on Governor Bob Ferguson to adjust state contracts to ensure clinics receive necessary reimbursements. The program serves over 212,000 women and children under five annually, providing vital support for healthy nutrition. The government shutdown began on October 1, complicating funding processes for the new fiscal year. In response to potential funding shortfalls, King County's local health department plans to issue one-time food vouchers for clients if needed.