SNAP funding for West Virginians stretched thin during government shutdown

CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — With the federal government still shut down, SNAP benefits have been delayed in many states across the nation, including West Virginia, and with more than 40 million Americans using the SNAP program, many of them are concerned.

Governor Patrick Morrissey was asked about the delay of SNAP benefits, and he said the following:

“I am going to do everything I can to protect our people. We saw that in context with the national parks, that we were able to keep them open,” Morrisey said. “Obviously, we can’t step in the shoes of the feds all the time; we can only do it in a targeted way.”

Doloris Yoke, president of The Mustard Seed Food Pantry Board in Clarksburg, shared her feelings on the uncertainty surrounding SNAP.

“All of us know, delayed SNAP benefits means families are struggling,” Yoke said. “You can’t stretch food but so far, then it’s all gone.”

Food pantries across the region have been preparing for higher volumes of people due to the announcement, and Yoke expects The Mustard Seed to see these higher volumes.

“Last month, 847 food orders went out of the Mustard Seed. With the delay in SNAP benefits, we know that will increase,” Yoke said.

The Mustard Seed relies on donations from the community and its partners, and Yoke urges everybody, especially those directly affected, to help each other out and stay prepared.

“It’s evermore important to listen to your neighbors and hurry up and get there and get what you need,” Yoke said. “Do not be embarrassed, there is not stigma to this.”

As we enter the third week of the government shutdown, Congress has yet to pass a budget to end it.