Republican Shutdown Threatens WIC Benefits

Representatives Nunn and Miller-Meeks Jeopardize Food for Young Families by Shutting the Government Down Instead of Lowering Healthcare Costs 

As the government shutdown drags on, Iowans relying on WIC are facing an uncertain future. WIC provides essential nutrition assistance to lower-income pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 years old, helping them access healthy food and formula.

In Iowa, around 61,683 individuals depend on WIC benefits each month. With federal funding at risk of  running out within the second or third week of a shutdown, these families are bracing for the worst.

Kim Power, a single mother of two in Zach Nunn’s district, is worried about the possibility of losing WIC benefits. 

“I just don't know how I'll be able to feed my kids if WIC funding runs out,” Power said. “It's already hard enough making ends meet, and the thought of losing this support is terrifying.”

The shutdown is a direct result of Republicans' refusal to keep healthcare costs affordable, with Reps. Zach Nunn and Mariannette Miller-Meeks playing key roles in the ongoing stalemate. Their prioritization of massive healthcare cuts over the well-being of Iowans is putting vulnerable populations at risk.

WIC is a lifeline for many families, providing access to nutritious food, breastfeeding support, and nutrition guidance. Disrupting this program could have long-lasting impacts on the health and development of participating children. As the situation continues to unfold, it's clear that the GOP's reckless tactics are putting the needs of Iowans on the backburner.