Governor Youngkin launches statewide food drive to support families affected by shutdown
Richmond, Virginia – In response to the ongoing federal government shutdown, Governor Glenn Youngkin announced the launch of the Virginia Cares Initiative, a statewide food drive aimed at providing food assistance to thousands of Virginians currently struggling to access basic necessities. The initiative will specifically support those not covered under the Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) program, including federal workers, military support personnel awaiting pay, and approximately 12,000 Virginians who recently became eligible for SNAP benefits but are unable to receive them due to the shutdown.
“Virginia is the first state in the nation providing direct nutritional assistance to SNAP recipients during this shutdown,” said Governor Youngkin. “But we know there are still thousands of families, including federal workers and newly eligible Virginians, who are struggling to make ends meet as the Democrat Shutdown continues. The Virginia Cares Initiative ensures that our communities can step forward to bridge that gap, especially as we approach Thanksgiving.”
A Statewide Call to Action
Through the Virginia Cares Initiative, all Virginians are encouraged to contribute to the food drive by donating food or funds to one of the state’s seven regional food banks. Donors will receive a list of high-demand food items and instructions on where and when to drop off donations. For those choosing to give money, food banks will use the funds to purchase additional food to meet the growing demand. Due to their purchasing capabilities, food banks can stretch each donated dollar to maximize the number of families helped.
Last week, the governor allocated an additional $1 million to support these food banks and ensure that essential supplies reach those in need.
“With many Virginians feeling the strain of the federal shutdown, we’re stepping up once again to make sure no Virginian goes hungry,” said Secretary of Health and Human Resources Janet V. Kelly. “Through the Virginia Cares Initiative, we’re coming together as neighbors to support working families, civilians who support our service branches, and public servants across the Commonwealth.”
Backed by State and Community Leaders
The initiative is supported by several offices within the state government, including the Offices of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, the Secretary of Health and Human Resources, and the Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry. It also brings together a large network of regional food banks and over 1,150 pantry partners, working in tandem to serve as both collection points and distribution centers.
“Virginians take care of their own, and the Virginia Cares Initiative reflects that spirit of community and compassion,” said Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr. “By working closely with our regional food banks, we can help ensure that families impacted by the shutdown have access to the food and support they need.”
Ashley Traficant Ledwith, Executive Director of Outreach and Engagement in the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, emphasized the resilience of Virginia’s communities: “Virginians are facing food insecurity due to the government shutdown. But every time Virginians have faced a challenge, our neighbors across the Commonwealth step up to meet the moment. I am confident the Virginia Cares Initiative will demonstrate once again that the Spirit of Virginia is strong.”
Eddie Oliver, Executive Director of the Federation of Virginia Food Banks, highlighted the growing pressure food banks are under: “Our food banks and network of 1,150 pantry partners are facing a perfect storm of challenges. We are grateful for the Governor’s leadership in establishing VENA and ensuring food banks have additional resources to meet the record high demand we are experiencing across the Commonwealth.”
How to Get Involved
Virginians who want to participate in the Virginia Cares Initiative can visit the Virginia Cares Initiative Sign-Up Page to learn how to donate, volunteer, or organize a local food drive. Regional information on drop-off locations and high-need items will be made available.
To learn more about the Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) program, visit dss.virginia.gov/VENA.
