Morrisey announces food bank donation drive; state to match funds

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WOWK) – West Virginia Governor Morrisey is set to unveil details of a new plan to help food banks.

According to the governor, there will be a donation drive for food banks, which will be matched with state funds. Morrisey said states were informed this past weekend that the November SNAP benefits would be delayed.

The governor says this is a serious crisis in West Virginia, saying many parents are wondering how they can put food on the table, and seniors are stretching their dollars. He says as food banks step up to meet the need, they are now being stretched thin as well.

Morrisey says he is calling on those who are able to help their neighbors in need, saying they have identified more than $13 million to assist food banks, but wants to double the funds by creating a donation matching effort. He says the state will match the donations from the public.

According to the governor, Facing Hunger Foodbank and Mountaineer Food Bank will split the funds evenly and distribute the money to their partner food pantries.

“Your fellow West Virginians need your help,” Morrisey said.

He also asked family resource networks across the state to make sure all their information is up-to-date to help direct those in need to the available resources. Morrisey also pointed out that the WV 211 hotline is available to help connect those in need with resources.

“We know that the next challenge is going to be securing and distributing the food to those who need it,” Morrisey said.

In his announcement, Morrisey blamed Senator Chuck Schumer and Senate democrats for the government shutdown, which he called the “Schumer shutdown,” and accused them of “playing politics” with people’s lives.

This is a developing story, and we will update this article as we learn more details throughout the evening.