From seashore access to WIC benefits: How government shutdown is impacting MS

The government shutdown, which took effect Oct. 1, is causing disruptions to parks, programs, and services in Mississippi.

Gulf Islands National Seashore remains accessible, but certain services and campgrounds are unavailable. Ship Island Excursions still operate, though ferry trips are reduced in frequency.

The federal government's WIC program in Mississippi will continue through October. However, officials worry about November if the shutdown persists. The program restricts new applicants to "Priority 1" groups.

Despite the shutdown, the U.S. Postal Service remains operational. Mail delivery proceeds as usual because USPS does not rely on tax dollars.

Read more in the stories below:

NO. 1: WILL USPS KEEP DELIVERING MAIL IN MS DURING THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN? HERE’S WHAT WE KNOW

The federal government shutdown began Wednesday, Oct. | Published October 4, 2025 | Read Full Story by Natalie Demaree

NO. 2: WHAT DOES GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN MEAN FOR SOUTH MS NATIONAL PARK, ISLAND VISITORS?

During the government shutdown, residents still have access to Gulf Islands National Seashore barrier islands off the Mississippi Coast, although some services are unavailable and a campground onshore is closed. | Published October 8, 2025 | Read Full Story by Anita Lee

NO. 3: SHUTDOWN WON’T AFFECT WIC IN OCTOBER, MS OFFICIAL SAYS. BUT NOVEMBER COULD BE A PROBLEM

Funding for a food and nutrition program that serves nearly 70,000 Mississippi caregivers and children is expected to last through October amid the federal government shutdown, State Health Officer Dr. | Published October 9, 2025 | Read Full Story by Sofia Paffenroth

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.