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CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WOWK) - The West Virginia National Guard has begun its efforts to help food banks and food pantries provide assistance to those in need as SNAP benefits come to a halt Saturday.

In less than 24 hours, SNAP benefits will be suspended due to a lapse in federal appropriation amid the government shutdown. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey says that more than 270,000 West Virginians will be affected by the pause in benefits.

Earlier this week, Morrisey authorized the WVNG to activate at least 200 service members in State Active Duty Status to help the food banks and food pantries with distribution efforts. Their mission is to assist with receiving, sorting, transporting, storing packaging and distributing food as well as helping with traffi

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