Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced the launch of the Virginia Cares Initiative, a statewide food drive aimed at supporting Virginians affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown. The initiative is designed to provide food assistance to those not currently covered under the Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) program. This includes federal employees, military civilian workers awaiting pay, and about 12,000 Virginians who have recently become eligible for SNAP benefits but are unable to access 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 Glenn 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.”
Through this initiative, residents can contribute by donating food or funds to regional food banks across Virginia. Participants will be provided with lists of high-demand items and information on drop-off locations and hours. Monetary donations will allow food banks to purchase additional supplies and address increased demand for emergency assistance. Food banks plan to use their purchasing power efficiently in order to maximize each donation’s impact. Last week, Governor Youngkin allocated an extra $1 million in support of these efforts.
“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.”
The initiative is supported by several state offices including those of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, Secretary of Health and Human Resources, and Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry. Seven regional food banks will act as collection points for donated goods.
“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. These programs not only address immediate needs but also highlight the vital role Virginia’s agricultural industry plays in sustaining our communities.”
“Virginians are facing food insecurity due to the government shutdown,” said Ashley Traficant Ledwith, Executive Director of Outreach and Engagement at the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth. “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 Spirit of Virginia is strong.”
“Our food banks and network of 1,150 pantry partners are facing a perfect storm of challenges,” said Eddie Oliver, Executive Director at Federation of Virginia Food Banks.“We are grateful for Governor’s leadership in establishing VENA and ensuring food banks have additional resources to meet record high demand we are experiencing across Commonwealth.We appreciate continued support from community as we work connect every family with nutrition they need thrive.”
Those interested in participating can visit the official sign-up page for more details on how they can donate or volunteer.
For further information about VENA program visit dss.virginia.gov/VENA.
