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Beaufort County agrees to short-term funding to maintain senior meals and WIC if federal shutdown persists
Summary
Fearing interruptions to Meals on Wheels, congregate meals and WIC formula distributions, the commission authorized county funding for up to 30 days to keep those programs operating while awaiting clarity on federal reimbursements.
County staff told commissioners that a federal funding interruption could affect Meals on Wheels, congregate senior meals and the WIC (Women, Infants and Children) program. Staff said the county typically provides the funding up front and is reimbursed by the state and federal sources; in prior shutdowns the county submitted requests and later received reimbursement.
The manager and health staff provided estimates: congregate and Meals on Wheels services total roughly $30,000—60,000 per month, with staff saying the county's current estimate is 'we're somewhere in the $50,000 a month range for congregate meals, meals on wheels, and yet homemade services for seniors.' The health director added that more than 200 mothers receive WIC formula through the county and that the program's two-week contingency funding window could expire soon if a shutdown continues.
Commissioners discussed whether to continue services and whether the county could absorb costs temporarily. A motion to provide the funds for the next 30 days if necessary was moved and seconded and adopted by a 4-1 vote.
The board asked staff to return with exact figures and any longer-term options if the federal funding interruption persists; staff said they will monitor reimbursements and report back.
