Governor Patrick Morrisey reported that the West Virginia National Guard has distributed over 10,000 food boxes since SNAP benefits were suspended on November 1 due to the federal government shutdown.
As of November 4, the distribution breakdown includes 6,653 boxes delivered to food pantries and 3,936 boxes distributed directly to citizens and pop-up food pantries.
Funding and Support
The state allocated $8.6 million in emergency funding, comprised of $1.1 million from the legislature, $5 million in contingency funds, and $2.5 million in additional state funding.
Morrisey stated: "We've asked that the food pantries spend those funds locally with producers, grocery stores and retailers." The governor emphasized the initiative will cost approximately $1.5 million daily.
Private donations and in-kind contributions from businesses have added over $700,000 in combined support, demonstrating the community's commitment to helping neighbors in need.
"West Virginia takes care of its own," the Governor said. "When the federal government fails our people, we step up. That's what we do here in the Mountain State."
Resources
Residents needing assistance can contact 2-1-1 or visit wv211.org for local food distribution information and community support services. The state continues to work with food banks and local organizations to ensure that no West Virginian goes hungry during the federal shutdown.
The rapid mobilization of the National Guard and the coordinated response with food banks demonstrates the state's ability to respond quickly to emergencies and protect its most vulnerable citizens. The initiative serves as a model for how state governments can step in when federal support systems fail.
Originally published by The Real WV
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