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As the shutdown nears a month, low-income families face cascading losses: WIC funds that cover infant formula and groceries may run out within days; SNAP cannot tap contingency dollars; and 140 Head Start centers could close, forcing parents to find child care. Nearly six million households risk winter utility shut-offs as states curb heating aid, with Utah and Wyoming stopping new applications. Seniors struggle to verify benefits, threatening housing subsidies. Some programs scrape by with temporary donations, but uncertainty deepens stress. Food banks brace for a surge.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.