Charleston, WV (WOAY) – The West Virginia National Guard is being activated to assist communities with food relief efforts as funding for SNAP benefits runs out on Saturday.
According to a media release from the National Guard, 200 service members have received authorization from West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey to provide logistical support as well as personnel to food banks and pantries throughout the state.
“We stand ready to support our state partner agencies, local food banks and non-profit organizations with critical logistical support to keep food on the table for West Virginia families,” WVNG Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Jim Seward said in the news release.
The West Virginia National Guard’s duties while deployed may also include assisting with receiving, sorting, packaging and distributing food; managing traffic and crowds; providing logistical support; and ensuring safe, orderly and dignified distribution, according to the news release.
The WVNG has was worked with partner agencies and non-profits such as Facing Hunger Food Bank, Mountaineer Food Bank, West Virginia Dept. Of Agriculture and the West Virginia Dept. of Human Services.
Anyone in need of assistance can call 211 or visit wv211.org for food assistance and local pantry information. You can also contact your local Family Resource Network for support.
