CHARLESTON, W. Va. – Under the direction of West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey, the West Virginia National Guard (WVNG) is assisting communities with logistical and personnel support at local food banks and pantries across the state to mitigate the impact of SNAP benefit suspension due to a lapse in federal appropriation on vulnerable populations.
“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.
Governor Morrisey authorized the activation of 200 or more service members in State Active Duty status to support this effort.
The WVNG has a long history of assisting citizens in time of need, including food distributions efforts during times of natural disaster and, most notably, the COVID 19 pandemic.
“Point us at a task, no matter how small or difficult,” Maj. Gen. Seward said, “and our Soldiers and Airmen can get it done.”
WVNG has worked directly with partner agencies and non-profits such as Facing Hunger Food Bank, Mountaineer Food Bank, West Virginia Dept. of Agriculture, West Virginia 211, and the West Virginia Dept. of Human Services. These relationships are expected to allow for a cohesive coalition of support to the state’s citizens.
The WVNG’s mission may include assisting with receiving, sorting, packaging, and distributing food; managing traffic and crowds; providing logistical support (transportation and storage); and ensuring safe, orderly, and dignified distribution.
Donation Information
Governor Morrisey called upon residents, businesses, churches, and community organizations to donate directly to Facing Hunger Food Bank and Mountaineer Food Bank. The following links 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.
For more information, contact the West Virginia National Guard Public Affairs Office at: (304) 561-6689 or email: ariana.o.shuemake.mil@army.mil
