U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — The Virgin Islands Department of Health is assuring the public that its Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program continues to provide services during the ongoing federal government shutdown.

While certain federal agencies have paused some operations due to the lapse in government funding, the WIC program in the Virgin Islands continues to provide critical nutrition benefits and support to families. All food benefits are being distributed without interruption, and program staff across the territory remain on duty to assist clients.

“The Virgin Islands WIC Program has begun receiving its portion of USDA funding to ensure that families continue to have access to nutritious foods and essential support,” said Justa Encarnacion, VI Health Commissioner. “We encourage all participants to keep their appointments and use their benefits as usual.”

WIC clinics across the St. Croix and St. Thomas-St. John districts are open for regular business hours. “Our staff remain available to provide nutrition and breastfeeding support, and we continue to encourage mothers to breastfeed their infants,” said Lorna Concepcion, VI WIC Director.

Participants with questions may contact their local WIC office at (340) 716-1770 for St. Thomas/St. John District and (340) 718-9157 for St. Croix.