As effects from the ongoing government shutdown continue to ripple nationwide, Alabama public health officials say it may soon be affecting mothers and children in the state.

The state’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, otherwise known as WIC, is at risk of running out of funds before November if the shutdown continues, according to State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris.

“WIC is funded from year to year, but it’s a discretionary program,” Harris explained.

“So, it has to be funded by Congress each year. And if the shutdown is occurring and there’s no mechanism to fund it, then the money stops.”

Established in 1972, WIC provides free healthy foods, breastfeeding support, nutrition education, and referrals to other services to support the health of

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