by Coalition on Human Needs
On the heels of restricting SNAP and TANF aid, and cutting funds needed for housing, child care, education and much more , House Republicans are now attempting to cut $800 million from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
Here’s what that cut means: they’re taking food away from babies, toddlers, and pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding parents. The House GOP’s plan is to gut the benefit for fruits and vegetables put in place based on recommendations from the National Academy of Sciences―cutting benefits for 1.5 million parents and 3.5 million children ages 1-4.
The cuts are steep: for 1-4 year olds, the monthly allotment for fruits and vegetables drops from $25 to $11; for breastfeeding participants, it drops from $49 to $15. Overall, the $800 million cut slices off 19% of WIC food benefits.
Taking away access to fruits and vegetables makes no sense scientifically or morally. The United States is the wealthiest nation on Earth and we have more than enough to ensure that every pregnant and postpartum person and young child not only has enough fruits and vegetables, but has enough food period.
The result of these cuts would lead to negative pregnancy-related and child health outcomes. Early access to healthy and nutritious food is critical for both fetal and child development. Access to WIC is associated with healthier birth rates, lower risk of infant death, and improved child cognitive function and overall health.
You can help by sending a direct message to the House demanding they oppose any and all cuts to WIC.
