Emergency Relief: Morrisey Unveils $767K in Support for Flood-Affected Food Pantries

On Wednesday, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced emergency funding for food pantries impacted by the flooding earlier this year. A total of $767,000 will be given to 63 food pantries across 13 counties to help restock their supplies as communities work to bounce back from these natural disasters.

Ohio County will receive $53,000 to support its food pantries. Morrisey emphasized the ongoing efforts to aid affected communities, stating, “While the flood waters have long since subsided, we are still working in the affected communities to help them make a full recovery. These funds will help local food pantries keep food on their shelves so they can continue to serve those who were hardest hit by this year’s floods.”

The governor has opened an application process for food pantries in counties that received federal Disaster Declarations. This initiative works alongside the Mountaineer Food Bank and Facing Hunger Food Bank.

Here’s a look at how the funds will be distributed:

• Greenbrier County – $13,000
• Lincoln County – $30,000
• Logan County – $54,000
• Marion County – $66,000
• McDowell County – $104,000
• Mercer County – $119,500
• Mingo County – $115,000
• Monroe County – $26,000
• Raleigh County – $60,000
• Summers County – $15,000
• Wayne County – $60,065.75
• Wyoming County – $52,000

Recent data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) shows that food insecurity often spikes after natural disasters. An estimated 14% of West Virginians faced food insecurity in 2021, a number that likely worsened after the floods. Local leaders like Morrisey stress the importance of fast and effective aid to stabilize communities and prevent long-term setbacks.

Social media reactions have been positive, with many acknowledging the importance of supporting local food pantries. Residents have shared their gratitude for the quick response and hope this funding makes a real difference in their communities.

This funding initiative highlights a growing trend where states are enhancing their disaster response strategies, emphasizing the need for immediate and substantial local support. By focusing on community resources, West Virginia aims to not just recover but also strengthen its resilience against future challenges.

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