Overview

• The National WIC Association warns the program could deplete federal funds within one to two weeks of the shutdown’s start.
• Colorado is drawing $7.5 million from its general fund to keep state WIC benefits operating for up to a month, with officials expecting federal reimbursement but offering no contingency if repayment does not occur.
• USDA contingency funds of about $150 million and limited state carryover or early formula rebates provide only short-term relief at this point in the fiscal calendar.
• Local health departments are executing stopgap plans: El Paso County, Colorado, urged clients to keep October appointments and said more than 14,000 county participants would otherwise lose food benefits.
• Infant-nutrition groups, including The Milk Bank in Indianapolis, are coordinating with WIC partners and asking communities for milk and monetary donations to meet anticipated needs.