Food insecurity is a greater problem in our region than many of us care to consider. Even when we see rising prices at grocery stores, it does not always translate to thinking about those who are being priced out of a decent meal for their families. But the need is great, and policymakers are working toward solutions.
Among them is the SNAP Stretch program, which recently awarded $200,000 for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Stretch benefits to the West Virginia Food and Farm Coalition. This will allow SNAP recipients to double or even triple their buying power.
"We hit some roadblocks with implementation, but I am glad we can provide this extra benefit to our farmers and SNAP recipients," said state Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt.
It's a start.
"We continue to see a significant return on every dollar invested in agriculture. … It is time for the Legislature to increase funding toward agricultural production," Leonhardt said. He is right. Such a move is good for farmers and for families in need. Lawmakers should make it happen.