JACKSON, Wyo. — A federal program that assists mothers who have young children is expected to continue distributing benefits through the month of November despite the federal government shutdown.
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) supports women with children up to age 5, pregnant women, infants and new mothers who meet income requirements. At the grocery store, participants in the program can receive free qualifying food products, such as milk, yogurt, whole grain bread and pasta, fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, eggs and more. Other program benefits include nursing equipment and support, nutrition coaching, recipes and shopping tips.
The Teton County Health Department took over local administration of WIC from the state at the end of the summer. In September, the Jackson Hole News & Guide reported that 199 residents were served by the county’s program. Teton County’s Director of Health Dr. Travis Riddell told Buckrail that he has been following the issue closely.
“We have also received assurances that the program expects to remain solvent at least through November in the event that the lapse in federal appropriations continues,” Riddell said via email. “I have not had any discussion or received any communication about contingency planning beyond November.”
A Facebook post by Wyoming WIC Program states that it will notify participants about whether or not services will continue to be provided after November.
Earlier this month, the Wyoming Department of Family Services announced that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) would halt dispersement of benefits in November due to the government shutdown. Food payments through SNAP are expected to remain on hold until Congress approves a budget bill and reopens the government. Find more local food resources here.
