The federal government shutdown has resulted in uncertainty for many in our community. Here are the latest food-related updates and resources, although, this information is subject to change.

Missouri WIC participants can continue to redeem WIC benefits in November. Families should continue to attend appointments and shop with their WIC cards.

If there are future updates that impact the availability of WIC benefits or services, we will communicate directly with our WIC families to keep them informed.

Your best source for up-to-date information: Missouri WIC's website OR speaking with your local WIC team.

The latest information (as of Oct. 30) from the Missouri Department of Social Services:

"Due to the federal shutdown, the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has instructed state agencies to temporarily suspend the issuance of November 2025 SNAP benefits, which are 100% federally funded. DSS will still accept and process SNAP applications, reported changes, and mid-certifications as usual."

Your best source for up-to-date information: Missouri Department of Social Services' website (includes FAQs)

In addition to the federal shutdown, changes are in progress for the SNAP program due to the One Big Beautiful Bill act. To better understand the changes and how they might impact you, download Clay County Public Health's Guide to Federal Changes for SNAP Users.

Is your household struggling to have enough healthy food due to the impacts of shutdown? Harvesters' Food Locator page is a great one-stop-shop for discovering most area food assistance options.

The health center's own mobile food pantry takes place on the first Wednesday of every month. Distribution runs from 3-4 p.m., while supplies last. No proof of need is required.

Another resource is MyPlate, a website (and app) that has numerous tips for meal planning and shopping on a budget, all while getting the nutrition your family needs.

Clay County Public Health Center will resume COVID vaccination on Nov. 5, 2025. Appointments are now available - call 816-595-4355 to schedule.

To be eligible at CCPHC:

You must be 65+ years old OR between the ages of 6 months-65 years with a specific risk factor AND complete shared clinical decision making.

What does this mean?

Shared Clinical Decision Making is a discussion with a qualified healthcare provider (like the health center's immunizations nurses, who are Registered Nurses) about the risks and benefits of the vaccine for that person.

SCDM is not new - this is already part of the process for some vaccines like Men B (all ages) and Hep B, HPV, and Pneumococcal conjugate (for certain ages/risk factors). You can also talk with your personal healthcare provider to decide if the COVID-19 vaccine is right for you.

People under 65 must also have a health condition that increases their risk for severe COVID-19 to receive the vaccine. The list of qualifying conditions can be found here. We do not require medical documentation to prove risk factors. People can simply confirm their own eligibility (self-attest).

What if I don't qualify?

Giving the vaccine to someone without a qualifying risk factor would be considered off-label (according to FDA), which Clay County Public Health is not allowed to do. However, personal healthcare providers (like doctors or nurse practitioners) may be able to provide the vaccine off-label, so individuals who don’t qualify with us can check with their own provider.

COVID vaccines are also available now at most retail pharmacies, including CVS, Walgreens, and Hy-Vee, without a prescription.

Why bother?

COVID-19 vaccines help our bodies develop immunity to the virus that causes COVID without us having to get the illness - avoiding feeling sick or even having to be hospitalized.

Learn how COVID vaccines work.

PLUS - don't forget about other vaccines that can help protect you over the winter! Now's the perfect time to get your flu shot, if you haven't already. Also, RSV shots for vulnerable people like older adults, pregnant women, and infants are now available at the health center.

It's easier than ever to access your family's immunization records at any time. Whether you need proof for school, work, travel, or medical care, the Docket® app is now available to help you access Missouri immunization information.

The app offers helpful features like adding all family members to one account, setting up immunization reminders, and accessing back-to-school forms.

"I've already used the app to access my daughter's record when her daycare needed it," said Kelsey, a CCPHC staff member. "It was very easy to set up and within minutes, I was able to download a PDF or send a secure link."

Download the app for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. If you experience any issues, look to the FAQs on Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services' website.

Clay County Public Health Center will continue to offer immunizations records for no cost via our online form. We do not offer walk-in requests for immunization records.

It can be easy to indulge during the holidays and you might even feel guilty after enjoying some not-so-healthy foods.

However, don't restrict yourself so much that you lose out on the joy. It's important to understand how to eat healthy and make good choices, but the holidays are also unique opportunities to connect with loved ones, participate in tradition, and savor the moment.

Still want to do some simple things to make the day a little healthier? Try these tips from the American Heart Association:

Inspiration from Our WIC Team

If you want to bring a healthier option to Friendsgiving or celebrations with family, check out these recommendations from Clay County Public Health's WIC nutritionists and dietitians! (Click the images to see each recipe.)

Healthier Apple Pie

Apple pie is a staple in Thanksgiving meals, but its nutritional value may be a concern for some. This recipe takes the classic dessert and replaces some of the less nutritious ingredients with more wholesome options.

Using maple syrup as a sweetener not only cuts out the refined sugar, but it also adds the benefit of being an antioxidant. This recipe also uses whole wheat flour, rather than the traditional all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour contains more fiber and contains nutrients such as potassium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins.

Making the switch for these two ingredients makes for a dessert that is both nourishing and tasty.

Honey Glazed Carrots and Green Beans

Looking for a side dish for your Thanksgiving meal that is packed with nutrients, while still tasting delicious? Try this honey glazed carrots and green beans recipe!

Carrots contain pigmented nutrients called carotenoids that help fight infections and support eye health. Eating more carrots has also been linked to lower cholesterol levels.

Green beans are high in fiber (which will help with digesting that turkey and stuffing!), are a good source of vitamin K, boost the immune system, and help regulate blood pressure.

This is a dish you can definitely feel good about serving to your loved ones.

Registered nurses administer required and recommended vaccinations to middle and high schoolers in local schools throughout the year. 

Parents/guardians should complete the online registration at least two weeks before their student's clinic.

Free dental screenings and fluoride varnish are offered at Clay County schools by registered dental hygienists.

Parents/guardians should return the consent form by clinic day (online option available at schools marked *) in order for your student to participate.

Don't see your child's school listed?

We may have already visited! But there are some December dates listed on each services' webpage (buttons above).

Clay County Public Health Center is now accepting applications for the following positions. Click here to learn more!

800 Haines Drive, Liberty, MO 64068

clayhealth.com | 816-595-4200

Through service, partnership, and leadership we deliver the essential public health services of prevention, promotion, and protection to improve the health and well-being of all communities in Clay County.

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