The state health department is warning residents of potential delays in SNAP and WIC benefits in November because of the ongoing government shutdown.

Rep. Rob Bresnahan (R-Pa.) on Tuesday introduced a bill to fund the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) during the government shutdown, as the funding lapse threatens payments of benefits if it continues.

DOH officials say by Oct. 31, six WIC offices run by the Spokane Regional Health District will be forced to close their doors.

CHARLOTTE — Despite the ongoing government shutdown, the WIC program will continue to provide food assistance to those in need. The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed on Monday that the WIC program will remain operational for the foreseeable future by utilizing tariff money to keep it going.

With over 40 million Americans relying on SNAP and WIC benefits, the government shutdown is putting pressure on brands, grocers and farmers dependent on these programs for steady sales and supply continuity.

Nearly 7 million people – many infants and young children – in the U.S. receive WIC benefits, according to the National WIC Association (NWA).

WIC, a program that provides essential aid for women, infants and young children, is in jeopardy as shutdown continues.

The Women, Infants and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program — which provides support to low-income families with young children — is expected to stay operational during the ongoing government shutdown,

As the federal government shutdown continues, Idaho’s ability to continue funding for a public assistance program for pregnant moms, new mothers and parents of young children is unclear.

AL.com’s Mary Colurso reports that Chick-fil-A opened its first vending machine this month at the Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia. USA Today had a reporter go over and check it out.