Heather Peterson, WIC Coordinator for Reno and McPherson County, wants people in the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program to know that even in the event of a government shutdown, effective October 1, 2023, WIC will still be open for business and families can continue to use their benefits. She said the only change that would occur if the federal government shuts down is that the fruit and vegetable benefit will be reduced but not stopped. Peterson said that the Kansas WIC agency indicated that families can still go to the grocery store to redeem benefits on October 1, 2023.
From the Kansas WIC Agency/Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE):
We understand the uncertainty and concern around a possible federal government shutdown. While we remain hopeful that a resolution will be reached, we want to reassure you that Kansas WIC will continue to operate if there is a federal shutdown.
Again, we remain hopeful of a resolution and will maintain contact with our federal partners to ensure transparent communication with our local agencies.
Families should call WIC at 620-259-8442 if they need changes to their food packages.