CHARLESTON, Va. (WSAZ) – Due to the continuing federal government shutdown, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding will run out on November 1, which means November food stamps will not be delivered.
In West Virginia, Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced the state will provide up to $13 million to be split between two food banks.
“Last week we accelerated the $1.1 million that was available, and this week we announced another $13 million. And that’s really important,” Morrisey said in an interview Thursday with WSAZ. “Just yesterday we sent $5 million to food banks in West Virginia. They are currently distributing resources and food from banks to pantries across the state. We think this will be helpful.”
WSAZ asked Morrisey what will happen next if the funds are not enough to cover hungry families.
“Every day I receive reports on where food banks and pantries are. When those reports come back to me, I will make sure West Virginians don’t go hungry,” Morrisey said. “I’ve been in contact with the House and Senate leadership. I think they like the plan, they support it. And we’re going to do what we can to help our people, make sure our people don’t go hungry.”
Morrisey expressed concerns that it would take too long to call a special legislative session to allocate more funds. But at a virtual news conference Thursday, West Virginia House Democrats rejected that decision. They vowed to work with the governor and their Republican colleagues, saying they would do everything in their power to ensure food security for all.
“It would be time well spent,” Del said. Sean Hornbuckle, D-Cabell, on the proposed special legislative session.
“Let’s not forget that Republicans have the majority. They could call a special session, they could suspend the Constitution, they could take any votes necessary, and they could do it all in one day,” the Del. said. Shawn Fluharty of Ohio State. “So we can get there, get it done in one day, two days at most, and get out of town.”
At the news conference, delegates offered several options for the governor to consider, including increasing money from his emergency fund, as Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced hours later.
Governor Morrisey told WSAZ that he is considering all options and is using an “all hands on deck” approach to handle the situation.
“People are becoming more and more active. We have actually activated [National] Ranger to help with management and logistics,” Morrisey said. “We have developed the fastest and most efficient way to provide resources and food to people. Because we will not allow people to go hungry.”
For food assistance, Governor Morrisey is asking people to call the 2-1-1 hotline or visit the city wv211.org.
To join state food banks collecting donations, click Here.
