CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) – Governor Patrick Morrisey launched a statewide donation drive supporting West Virginia food banks to address the critical need for resources facing those affected by the government shutdown and the absence of SNAP benefits starting in November. The State of West Virginia has identified up to $13 million in funding to match private and charitable donations, potentially delivering $26 million in total food assistance statewide.
“We’re not going to let our people go hungry because Democrats in Congress vote again and again for the Schumer Shutdown and to prevent SNAP payments from going out on time,” said Governor Morrisey. “West Virginians take care of our neighbors. It’s times like these that we need to come together as Team West Virginia to help those in need.”
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has notified states that November SNAP payments will be delayed, affecting more than 40 million Americans, including approximately 270,000 West Virginians.
“Senate Democrats refuse to come to the table and pass a clean, bipartisan funding extension that would fund the government and ensure these benefits go out to our citizens,” added Governor Morrisey. “Instead, they would rather play politics with the livelihoods of some of the most vulnerable among us. And many West Virginians are caught in the crossfire.”
Additionally, Governor Morrisey directed the West Virginia National Guard to support food banks, food pantries, and state agencies with logistics and distribution efforts to ensure vital assistance continues despite disruptions.
“We stand ready to support our state partner agencies, local food banks and non-profit organizations with critical logistical support to assist West Virginia families and individuals who face food insecurity,” said Maj. Gen. Jim Seward, Adjutant General of the West Virginia National Guard.
The announcement comes after the Governor previously expedited $1.1 million in state funding to assist food banks.
“The focus of our work is always our neighbor in need and the most vulnerable populations in our state including children, seniors and Veterans,” said Chad Morrison, CEO of Mountaineer Food Bank. “We know many West Virginia families are hurting and struggling and these additional resources will be a catalyst for helping families feel whole.”
“We applaud this partnership and the quick action steps of the Governor and this Administration to support hunger relief at this period in which we are experiencing a 50% increase in demand at the food bank, for our pantry partners and at our mobile pantries,” said Cynthia Kirkhart, CEO, of Facing Hunger Food Bank. “The resources provided will be directed to the purchase and distribution of food, and to our pantry partners for their use to meet the emergency food assistance needs of the communities we collectively serve.”
Residents, businesses, churches, and community organizations are encouraged to donate directly to Facing Hunger Food Bank and Mountaineer Food Bank. The following QR codes are provided for direct contributions, with donations split evenly between both organizations.
Donate to Facing Hunger Food Bank: https://facinghunger.org/donate-now/
Donate to Mountaineer Food Bank: https://mountaineerfoodbank.harnessgiving.org/donate
Resources for Families
Call 2-1-1 or visit wv211.org for food assistance and local pantry information.
Contact your local Family Resource Network (FRN) for community-based support and updated food distribution lists.
