July 26, 2011

Manchin, Rockefeller, Rahall Announce $612,931 to Provide Food and Shelter for West Virginians in Need

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Joe Manchin and Jay Rockefeller and Rep. Nick Rahall (all D-W.Va.) today announced that counties across West Virginia will receive a total of $612,931 to support social service agencies that help feed and shelter West Virginians in need. The funds will be used to supplement existing food, shelter, rent, mortgage and utility assistance programs for people going through non-disaster related emergencies. 

“The health and safety of all West Virginia residents remains one of my top priorities,” Senator Manchin said. “I am glad that we can work together to make sure that our friends, families and neighbors have the support that they need to get through these especially tough times.”

“Times are challenging for many West Virginia families, and these extra funds put assistance into the hands of those who really need it,” Senator Rockefeller said. “Our social service organizations work hard to help people in need of emergency assistance, and this additional help will enable many West Virginians to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads.”

“Poverty and homelessness is a heartbreaking reality in our Nation and we have a moral obligation to try to do something about it,” said Rahall.  “This funding will help community service organizations throughout southern West Virginia to provide food, shelter, and assistance to those hardest hit by the weak economy.”

The funds are being distributed under the Emergency Food and Shelter Program, which is in its 28th year of operation. 

The Emergency Food and Shelter Program’s National Board determines funding allocations for each state. Member agencies of the National Board include: American Red Cross, Catholic Charities USA, The Jewish Federations of North America, National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, The Salvation Army, United Way Worldwide and the Federal Emergency Management Agency of the Department of Homeland Security.

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