ITCN WIC Program Resumes Amidst Funding Concerns
The Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is back in operation, fueled by unspent recovery funds from the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service, as stated in a recent announcement. These funds will support the program until October.
Currently, the program is a lifeline for 531 families, offering essential services such as breastfeeding support, food assistance, and nutrition education.
“We’re relieved to reopen our doors and continue supporting the families who depend on WIC,” expressed Blanca Plascencia-Reyna, the ITCN WIC program director. “Our team worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth restart. However, the uncertainty around future funding remains deeply concerning — not just for ITCN, but for WIC agencies across the nation.”
The council acknowledged the efforts of Nevada’s Democratic senators for their role in advocating for the program and engaging with federal authorities.
Despite the reopening, ITCN has not yet received specifics about the White House’s decision to utilize tariff revenue as a temporary measure to sustain WIC initiatives.
In related news, Nevada’s state WIC program continues to operate without hindrance despite the federal government shutdown, as per Nevada WIC’s press release.
“Ensuring uninterrupted food benefits and program support for pregnant women, new mothers, infants and children is our main priority and Nevadans should continue to redeem their food benefits and attend clinic visits,” stated Blanca Ayala, Nevada WIC program director.
Additionally, the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe has reinstated over 25 employees who were furloughed because of the federal shutdown. Chairman Steven Wadsworth announced on the tribe’s website that furloughs have ended across impacted departments, including the museum, visitor center, and other services.
Previously, Wadsworth clarified that the furloughs were imperative to maintain crucial services like the food bank and emergency services during the shutdown. However, he did not provide further details on the reinstatement of staff and was unavailable for additional comments.
