GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — Gaston Cares is collecting infant formula and baby supplies to support families who may be affected by the potential federal shutdown's impact on the Women, Infants, and Children program.

The organization will accept donations at the Gastonia Farmer's Market, located at 410 E. Long Ave., on Friday, Oct. 31 and Friday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

WIC provides healthy foods, nutrition education and support to pregnant women, postpartum and breastfeeding mothers, infants up to age 1 and children up to age 5. The government shutdown could disrupt services for qualifying families who depend on the program.

Gaston Cares is seeking unopened and unexpired infant formula, baby foods, iron-fortified infant cereal, diapers and wipes. Donated items will be distributed thr

See Full Page