Shutdown Threatens WIC Nutrition Aid for Nearly 7 Million
As the federal government shutdown begins in early October 2025, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) faces an immediate funding crunch that could force states to triage services. National WIC Association officials warn there is only about a two-week ‘runway’ from contingency funds, rebates and last year’s leftover balances before program operations risk disruption; Colorado lawmakers approved $7.5 million in emergency WIC funding the day before the shutdown began.
Health
Politics
Social Welfare
🔍 Key Facts
- WIC serves nearly 7 million people nationwide, including nearly half of U.S. infants.
- National WIC Association estimates roughly two weeks of funding runway from contingency funds, prior-year balances and manufacturer rebates.
- Colorado lawmakers approved $7.5 million to keep state WIC operations going; states may vary in reserves and responses.
- SNAP benefits are less immediately vulnerable for October because benefits/cards are loaded month‑ahead, per Food Research & Action Center.