W.Va. Food Banks Funding During Shutdown Grows to $8.6M

Governor Patrick Morrisey announced an additional $2.5 million in state funding directed to West Virginia's two largest food banks—Mountaineer Food Bank in Gassaway and Facing Hunger Foodbank in Huntington—to address food shortages caused by the federal government shutdown and paused SNAP benefits.

The governor stated he was "not going to let West Virginians go hungry" and emphasized the state's commitment to solving problems for its residents.

Funding Breakdown:** - Initial announcement: Up to $13 million available from COVID-19 pandemic contingency funds - Wednesday distribution: $5 million to the two food banks - Previously expedited: $1.1 million appropriated by the Legislature - **Total: $8.6 million

The federal shutdown entered its 32nd day on Saturday, affecting over 270,000 West Virginians dependent on SNAP benefits. The West Virginia National Guard was mobilized to assist with logistics and food distribution to local pantries.

Morrisey urged the public to use the state's 211 service or visit WV211.org to locate food assistance, and said he was prepared to call the Legislature back into special session if additional funding became necessary.

"We're monitoring the situation daily and we'll do whatever it takes to keep West Virginians fed," the Governor stated. "If we need more resources, we won't hesitate to ask the Legislature for them."

The funding demonstrates the administration's willingness to tap into available state resources to address emergency situations. By using COVID-19 contingency funds that were sitting unused, the state was able to respond quickly without waiting for new appropriations.

The mobilization of the National Guard for food distribution represents an innovative use of state resources to address a humanitarian crisis. Guard members are working alongside food bank staff and volunteers to ensure efficient distribution across the state's diverse geography, including remote rural areas that can be difficult to reach.

This comprehensive response shows how state government can effectively mobilize during crises to protect vulnerable populations. The combination of financial resources, logistical support, and coordination with existing food assistance networks creates a robust safety net when federal support fails.