Story perspectives

WIC Program Faces Shutdown, Millions at Risk

10/4/2025

Summary

Story summary

The shutdown threatens the WIC program serving over six million low-income mothers and children.
Funding for WIC may run out in two weeks; it relies on annual appropriations, not entitlements.
States may use emergency funds or unspent prior-year money for 1-2 weeks; some cover costs, others stop benefits.
The Agriculture Department says operations depend on state decisions and duration.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1972, the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program provides nutritional support to low-income families, currently serving over six million participants. Unlike entitlement programs, WIC relies on annual appropriations, making it vulnerable to funding disruptions. The ongoing threat of a government shutdown highlights the fragility of social safety nets and the urgent need for stable funding to support essential services for at-risk populations.

1 of 2

Story summary

The shutdown threatens the WIC program serving over six million low-income mothers and children.
Funding for WIC may run out in two weeks; it relies on annual appropriations, not entitlements.
States may use emergency funds or unspent prior-year money for 1-2 weeks; some cover costs, others stop benefits.
The Agriculture Department says operations depend on state decisions and duration.

1 / 2