WASHINGTON (AP) — Amid a looming government shutdown, the Trump administration has injected $300 million into the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, soothing concerns of a funding shortage that could jeopardize nutritional support for millions of low-income families.
WIC, which assists over 6 million low-income mothers, infants, and young children in acquiring essential food items such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and infant formula, was at risk of running out of funds just as Congress failed to pass a budget resolution before the shutdown commenced on October 1.
According to a statement made by White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, the administration identified “a creative solution” in utilizing leftover tariff revenues to sustain the program. As a result, states like Alaska and Washington reported receiving necessary federal funds to keep their programs operational throughout the month of October. The Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada was able to reopen its offices promptly with this funding, which had previously ceased operations due to financial constraints.
The Department of Agriculture manages the WIC program, and officials disclosed that they would draw from the $300 million funding provision, utilizing funds derived from tariffs that are intended to support child nutrition programs. This strategic approach permits the administration to transfer available fiscal resources to maintain critical family assistance.
Had this funding not been allocated, state governments would have been left to cover operational costs for WIC programs before eventually seeking reimbursement from the federal government once funding was restored. In Alaska, for instance, the state was initially only funded through the weekend but is now assured operation through early November thanks to the emergency funds.
The government shutdown persists as Congress remains divided, especially regarding proposed cuts to Medicaid and the extension of subsidies for Affordable Care Act insurance plans, which would affect an estimated 25 million Americans. The White House, alongside Republican leaders, has criticized Congressional Democrats for the shutdown, indicating that their decisions could have halted vital support systems like WIC.
While Democrats argue for maintaining and enhancing funding for such welfare programs, recent budget proposals put forth by the administration aimed at limiting funding to WIC, raising questions on future access for eligible families.
