As I understand it, one problem with block grants to states rather than
federal money for programs like WIC is that the money is less than was
available before.  Within each state, groups that formerly might have
worked together to be advocates for the needy, (programs for the elderly,
the hungry, the homeless, people with disabilities, mothers and babies,
etc.) now must compete with each other for access to these lesser funds.
The group with the most articulate and persuasive speaker (or perhaps with
the best "connections") will win out, and many other groups with legitimate
needs will go unhelped.  We don't know if states will be required to give
some measure of help to certain groups like hungry children or not.
Charitable organizations will not be able to fill all the gap, as many are
stretched beyond their limit right now.  And most charitable, voluntary
organizations presently get federal support, which may also be lost.  Their
ability to help will also be lessened.
I appreciate Kathy Dettwyler's comments on this issue, also.

Anne Altshuler, RN, MS, IBCLC and LLL leader in Madison, WI