Clinics, enrollment remain open for Women, Infants and Children program during gov’t shutdown

Hawaiʻi Department of Health announces that Women, Infants and Children program clinics throughout the state will remain open and fully operational during the federal government shutdown.

This includes continued services and open enrollment for new participants.

“As more Hawaiʻi families face food insecurity, we encourage those who may be eligible to apply for [Women, Infants and Children] benefits,” said Women, Infants and Children Services Branch Chief Melanie Murakami in the state’s announcement. “This includes those families currently receiving SNAP [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program] benefits, as they may also qualify for [Women, Infants and Children].”

Women, Infants and Children provides supplemental foods, health care referrals, nutrition education and breastfeeding support for pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding or postpartum and anyone who has children younger than 5 years old.

“All caregivers of young children are welcome to apply, including moms, dads, grandparents caring for grandchildren and foster parents,” Murakami said.

Just complete the online pre-application to apply for Women, Infants and Children. A staff member will contact you to schedule an appointment.

You can also schedule an appointment by calling 808-586-8175 or your nearest Women, Infants and Children clinic.

Current participants are reminded that all scheduled appointments, nutrition education and benefit issuance services are proceeding as normal.

Click here to find additional information about the Women, Infants and Children program.