It’s been ten days since the government shutdown with no end in sight.
After days of concern, there is hope for the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, also known as W.I.C.
According to the Associated Press, the U.S Department of Agriculture says it is securing $300 million for the federally funded program by using tariff revenue from the last fiscal year.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt previously posted on X about the possible solution earlier this week.
“WIC is fully operational right now. So, our doors are open, and we continue business as usual,” said Annette Thornton, the Director of W.I.C. at Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission.
Some states from across the country are already seeing that funding. Alaska and Washington say they now have enough money to get them through October.
Thornton said even before this new funding, California has reserved money to support the program within the state.
“For us in California, with the support of the California government able to still provide our WIC services,” said Thornton.
Thornton couldn’t say how long the state could support the nutritional program through a shutdown but wants people to rest assured, their benefits are still available.
“We want our participants to redeem their food benefits. We want new applicants to apply for WIC. We’re here for them if they need breastfeeding help, nutritional information, and the foods that we provide,” said Thornton.
Thornton adds, if you or someone you know have been financially impacted by the government shutdown, Fresno E.O.C. encourages you to contact them because you might be eligible for services..
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