Ensuring a Strong Start: The Urgent Need for Full Funding of the Federal WIC Program
By Rachel Lord
Advocacy and Policy Director, AFPC
Across Alaska, the Federal Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program provides thousands of new families with a wealth of nutrition and family support, in addition to direct access to nutritional foods. Nationally, WIC has been fully funded through bipartisan support for over 25 years. But its full funding is at significant risk in the coming weeks in Congress.
The importance of fully funding WIC cannot be overstated, especially when an estimated 4,000 women, infants, and children in Alaska face the risk of losing access to this nutritional support in 2024. With nearly 13% of our children in homes that don’t have enough food, this is just not acceptable. Without full funding for WIC, these families would likely be added to waiting lists - further exacerbating the caseload crisis facing the State of Alaska. We just can’t afford to keep undermining programs that help feed hungry families and provide pathways out of poverty.
Our food system comprises a tremendous mix of businesses, organizations, agencies, initiatives, and individuals across the state. We know there is no singular solution to eradicate hunger in Alaska. Moreover, we recognize that all these endeavors are interconnected, and the more tightly we weave them together, the stronger our state becomes.
Fully funding WIC is a crucial thread within this intricate fabric, providing support not only to Alaskan families but also to our grocery stores, food bank and pantries, farmers' markets, and Alaska Grown producers. WIC serves as a vital component of a strong food system across Alaska.
WIC, as outlined by the State of Alaska WIC website, plays a crucial role in promoting the health of pregnant and breastfeeding women, new mothers, and children under the age of five. The program goes beyond just providing checks for healthy food; it equips families with essential tools for building a foundation of nutritious eating. From personalized nutrition information to breastfeeding support, WIC ensures that Alaska's youngest and most vulnerable citizens receive comprehensive care.
The program extends its reach to foster families, recognizing that every child deserves a strong start in life. Through WIC funding, families are also connected with essential resources such as medical and dental care, health insurance, childcare, housing assistance, fuel support, and more. WIC is a comprehensive approach to supporting the entire family, acknowledging that the well-being of children is inseparable from the well-being of their caregivers.
Childhood hunger is a pressing issue that demands our attention. By fully funding WIC, we can make significant strides in reducing childhood hunger in Alaska, fostering a healthier, more resilient next generation. The program not only addresses immediate nutritional needs but also empowers families with knowledge on meal planning and budgeting, and other critical aspects of promoting overall well-being.
AFPC knows that ensuring food security includes our youngest and most vulnerable Alaskans. Let us stand together in advocating for the full funding of the Federal WIC program, ensuring that every child in Alaska has the opportunity to grow and thrive. The budget deadline is looming on January 19th. Our voices matter - please take a minute to call Senator Murkowski, Senator Sullivan, and Representative Peltola to let them know how important fully funding WIC is for Alaska.
Take Action!
Wednesday, January 10th participate in a National WIC call-in day to Congress!
CALL our Members of Congress to urge them to Fully Fund WIC.
Senator Lisa Murkowski: (202)-224-6665
Senator Dan Sullivan: (202) 224-3004
Representative Mary Peltola: (202) 225-5765
Talking Points:
Over 78,000 Alaskans don’t have enough food to eat, and 13% of Alaskan children live in homes that don’t have enough food
Over 4000 Alaskan women, infants and children will lose food and nutrition support if WIC isn’t fully funded.
WIC is a common-sense, proven program to improve nutrition and help grow strong Alaskan families
TOP TIPS:
Don’t forget our elected officials work for you and want to hear your input.
Staffers answer the phone so make sure you tell the person your name and where you are from. It is important for the office to know you live in Alaska.
Let them know clearly what you are calling about: “I support the full funding of the WIC program!”
If you can’t get through on the DC phone line you can try calling their regional offices
