"Mothers' Fears: WIC Benefits at Risk in Government Shutdown"

Nearly 7 million low-income women and their children in the U.S. could lose access to vital nutrition assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) if Congress fails to reach a deal to avert a government shutdown. WIC provides healthcare services and nutrient-rich food products to pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and children under 5. The program serves about 6.3 million participants each month, including 39% of all infants in the United States. Mothers fear the loss of WIC benefits, including formula, milk, and other food products, which are crucial for their children's development.