Update on government shutdown impact to Head Start and WIC
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
ULLIN, Ill., (KBSI) —The Southern 7 Health Department is assuring families served through Head Start and the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program that services will continue as usual despite the ongoing federal government shutdown.
The department said it continues to monitor the situation daily and remains committed to keeping families informed of any changes.
Earlier this month, officials reported that WIC operations in Illinois were funded through October. That deadline has now been extended through November 2025.
As for Head Start, the department expects funding to continue through the end of the year, with no program changes planned at this time.
“We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time,” the department stated. “If you have any questions, please contact our office at 618-634-2297.”
Southern 7 Health Department serves the seven southernmost counties in Illinois, focusing on disease prevention, promoting healthy lifestyles, and ensuring access to healthcare services. The department also serves as the Head Start grantee for the region.
WIC is a federally funded program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture that provides grants to states to safeguard the health of low-income women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk. The program offers supplemental nutritious foods, nutrition education, and healthcare referrals. WIC services are available at all Southern 7 Public Health Clinics.
