November SNAP benefits officially delayed for West Virginians

CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) – As expected, payments in West Virginia for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will not go out on time in November.

After some October payments were delayed in West Virginia and federal SNAP funding for November was paused by the government shutdown, the delay was expected, but it will still leave more than 270,000 West Virginians without their usual food assistance.

The West Virginia Department of Human Services made the announcement on Wednesday, saying that the benefits will be released after Congress reopens the government and the U.S. Department of Agriculture approves the payments.

“We understand this causes uncertainty and are committed to keeping you informed,” the WVDoHS said in a social media post.

West Virginia is not among the states that have approved temporary SNAP funding at the state level, but Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced last week that $1.1 million in funding for food banks in West Virginia would be expedited, and on Tuesday, he announced a food bank donation drive that will be matched by the state.

“West Virginians take care of our neighbors. It’s times like these that we need to come together as Team West Virginia to help those in need,” Morrisey said.

West Virginia communities have also stepped up to provide food and resources to their neighbors on SNAP. Two West Virginia women have created a database of food resources across the state, which can be accessed here, and a list of resources in each county is available here. Other communities have come together to sponsor free meals every day until the shutdown ends.

West Virginians can also call 211 to be connected with a Community Resource Specialist who can provide details on things like food pantries, community meal programs and other resources.