Families worried about WIC running out due to government shutdown

CHARLOTTE — The Ella Scarborough Center is one of the locations where people can apply for federal food assistance.

There’s a family atmosphere at the Giant Money Grocery Store.

“It’s been a couple of generations for us,” one of the owners, Loc Tran said.

There is even a wall with pictures of customers who have passed away.

“As an owner, I’m very concerned because many of our clients does have government support,” Tran said.

Tran is worried about the shutdown because it could have a big impact on many of his customers.

“I’m very worried because things like that I depend on for my family and if they were to leave, it would leave us out here struggling,” one mother said. “Can’t afford the things we need for our family.”

The health department said that it has enough funds to support the WIC program for two weeks. That’s the supplement that primarily supports women and children.

“I hear about the government shutdown on the food and all and I’m like, it’s hard for a lot of people,” a shopper, Tanhiji Tillman said.

“It does irritate me a lot because why can’t you guys come to an agreement, you know? It’s a lot of people out here that depend on these sources,” the mother said.

That includes the store owner.

“We can only survive for so long with the effect, but hopefully in the next couple of weeks, we’ll see changes,” Tran said.

The SNAP program uses a different funding source, so it would be at least a couple of months before that program runs out of money. Recipients are hoping the shutdown ends long before then.

VIDEO: Students, families face financial uncertainty due to government budget cuts

Students, families face financial uncertainty due to government budget cuts

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