West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced that the state has allocated an additional $2.5 million to support food banks and pantries, bringing the total emergency food assistance distributed to $8.6 million. The funding is aimed at helping residents affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Last week, Governor Morrisey expedited $1.1 million in funds to food banks. On Tuesday, he authorized another $5 million as nearly 270,000 West Virginians are set to lose access to new SNAP benefits starting November 1, 2025.
“As Senator Chuck Schumer and the democrats in Congress continue to play games with the livelihoods of West Virginians, we will not let our people go hungry,” said Governor Morrisey. “We have sent $8.6 million to date, and will continue to monitor the situation closely to determine the next steps to take care of our most vulnerable citizens.”
The West Virginia National Guard (WVNG), under Governor Morrisey’s direction, is activating service members to assist local communities with logistics and personnel support at food banks and pantries throughout the state.
“We stand ready to support our state partner agencies, local food banks and non-profit organizations with critical logistical support to keep food on the table for West Virginia families,” said WVNG Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Jim Seward. “Point us at a task, no matter how small or difficult and our Soldiers and Airmen can get it done.”
The National Guard’s responsibilities include receiving, sorting, packaging, distributing food items, managing traffic and crowds at distribution sites, providing transportation and storage logistics, and ensuring safe distribution processes.
Governor Morrisey also encouraged residents, businesses, churches, and community groups to contribute directly to Facing Hunger Food Bank (https://facinghunger.org/donate-now/) and Mountaineer Food Bank (https://mountaineerfoodbank.harnessgiving.org/donate). Donations will be split evenly between both organizations.
For those seeking assistance or information about local pantries in West Virginia during this period without new SNAP benefits beginning November 1st, resources are available by calling 2-1-1 or visiting wv211.org.
