Pantry Plus More organizers, WVU athletes and community ramp up food assistance amid federal shutdown
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Summary
Pantry Plus More reported an urgent local response to increased need following federal benefit disruptions. Organizers said WVU student‑athletes and community donors stepped in with large donations and an upcoming multi‑day distribution to serve hundreds of families.
Donna, speaking as executive director of Pantry Plus More, told the Monongalia County Commission that the organization is coordinating expanded food assistance in response to disruptions in federal food programs and SNAP benefits.
Donna said WVU student‑athletes and coaches delivered roughly two tons of food and helped organize and distribute donations. She described local businesses and individuals responding rapidly: a radio campaign and church networks are organizing drives, and a private donor gave $2,000 after hearing the appeal. Pantry Plus More plans an additional multi‑day distribution that organizers expect will serve between 350 and 500 families; a specific date was not announced to avoid overwhelming volunteers.
She urged federal delegates to resolve the shutdown, noting immediate hardship for many residents and for local organizations coordinating emergency response. The commission acknowledged the group’s work and the community donations.