County warns WIC nutrition benefits could be disrupted if federal shutdown persists

County staff briefed the Sedgwick County Commission on Oct. 15 about potential disruptions to the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) nutrition program if a federal government shutdown continues into late October.

Deputy County Manager Tim Kaufman told commissioners WIC operates as a reimbursement-based program: when federal funds stop flowing, local health departments may not be reimbursed for benefits or staff costs. Kaufman said state partners at Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE/KDHS referenced as KDads in discussion) had identified resources sufficient to cover operations through roughly the end of October, but warned that continuing shutdown could force service reductions.

‘‘WIC is a reimbursement-based program,’’ Kaufman said. He said the county serves about 9,400 participants in an average month and that some WIC benefits—most critically infant formula—have few alternative suppliers at scale in the community.

Kaufman said county staff are exploring contingency options, including state-level assistance, coordination with community partners, and use of local resources if required. He asked the commission to be prepared for follow-up requests if state funding cannot fully bridge a lapse in federal funds.

Commissioners said they support working with KDHE and community partners to avoid service interruptions and asked staff to return with options if additional local funding or short-term solutions are needed.

No formal action was taken at the Oct. 15 meeting; the briefing was informational and staff said they would keep the commission apprised of developments.