With the government shutdown now on day 29, thousands of Allen County families could soon feel the impact.

Calls have been coming in to Allen County Public Health asking about the status of the WIC program and whether funding will hold up.

“Just working on those socialization skills for low-income families that may not have the opportunity to go to one of the preschools in the area,” said Phyllis Montrose, WOCAP Child Development Services director. “So what we do is that we work on writing skills, alphabet, name recognition, colors, shapes — everything that a child is going to need to get started in kindergarten to start their education career.”

The assistance includes up to $500 toward electric bills or up to $1,500 for repairs to a central air conditioning unit. There is also a separate benefit available for those needing an air conditioning unit in addition to monetary assistance.