Mountain State feeling shutdown impact as federal funding lapses

BECKLEY, WV (WOAY) – As the government shutdown enters its 24th day, with no end in sight, local charities and those they serve are hurting.

Some organizations rely on federal grants and other assistance to stay afloat.

“The uncertainty, I think is the most difficult part,” said United Way of Southern West Virginia Executive Director Trena Decal. “We know with SNAP benefits, if folks aren’t going to receive those in November, our local food pantries will be particularly hard hit.”

If a federal employee is not being paid or other employees don’t believe they will receive upcoming benefits, call the 211 information and referral hotline.

“We have a comprehensive database of all the local resources, Health and Human Services, and we can connect folks in that interim period when there is a need,” Decal said.

The ongoing government shutdown has had widespread impact on the American people, including right here in Raleigh County.

“It’s horrible; the food prices are so high, and with people getting SNAP, it’s taking all their money,” Shawn Stines said. 

Helping Hands Community Resource Center says the shutdown has made it tough, with double the people attending.

“We do 1600 people a month,” HHCRC Assistant Verna Andrews said. “Just today we’ve done six more. It has been packed all day.”

With food stamps suspended, those affected say they are left in limbo

“What are they going to do? What are we gonna do? Are we just going to be hungry, skip the power bill, or don’t eat this month?” said Stines. 

HHCRC is taking it day by day, offering what they have and trying to keep their government-allowable orders up. Donors and grants help.

“I’m a little worried at this pace we may run out of food,” Andrews said. “Or barely be able to give any food.”

In an area that suffers from generational poverty and the opioid epidemic, with community members at risk who already rely on social services, it has left United Way…

“Very concerned about those folks and how they will be able to make it through if the shutdown lasts much longer or they all go without any type of assistance,” said Decal.