WIC funding during the shutdown
- Ishaan Satija
- Sep 30
- 1 min read
Intro
The WIC program is a lifeline for millions of new parents and young children, but when government money stops, so does the help.
What Changed
With the shutdown starting on October 1, WIC funding is running on fumes. States only have a small reserve, and once it’s gone, families stop getting formula, cereal, and fruit vouchers. The hardest hit are parents with newborns who rely on monthly EBT reloads and those caring for infants with medical diets. Grocery stores that accept WIC see fewer customers and more confusion at checkout. Food banks are seeing longer lines as parents try to replace what they lost. Clinic staff who usually give nutrition advice are now spending their time fielding calls from worried families whose cards aren’t working.
What to Watch Next
Watch whether Congress restores full funding or leaves it short. Governors may find short-term fixes, but that money runs out quickly. For parents shopping this week, each day without a deal means more empty shelves and tougher choices.
