Cindy Gonzalez
LINCOLN — Nebraska families receiving benefits from the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program should not be affected by the pending federal government shutdown, at least not for now, the state Department of Health and Human Services said Friday.
In Nebraska, WIC each month provides healthy food, breastfeeding support, nutrition information and referrals to about 37,000 people of low income.
The state’s DHHS and local agencies are working to keep more than 100 WIC clinics across Nebraska open and to ensure that food assistance is not interrupted. New applicants continue to be accepted, HHS said in a statement.
“e-WIC cards will continue to be accepted at WIC-authorized grocery stores and pharmacies,”said Peggy Trouba, DHHS program manager. “At this time, WIC clinics will be open for business as usual, and WIC recipients can be assured their food benefits will continue to be available.”
Steve Corsi, DHHS’ new chief executive, said the agency is monitoring congressional activity. “Should circumstances change or the shutdown be prolonged, DHHS will reevaluate and communicate any changes.”