Friends —

I’m writing to check in with everyone on this team today, because I know that the spread of coronavirus is putting a huge strain on Virginians: mentally, physically, and financially. There’s no doubt that this is a trying time for our state and our nation. I know that Virginians are tough and resilient — we will make it through this together. The stories I’ve heard over the last few weeks of people across the Commonwealth organizing to help others give me hope in this uncertain time.

One of the most critical things we can do right now to advance the mission of creating a better Virginia for all is to take care of our communities. There are folks in our communities who are sick, or taking care of a sick relative. There are folks who are working double shifts at the hospital to treat those with coronavirus, and folks who are working overtime to keep our grocery stores and pharmacies running smoothly. There are folks who could use our help right now.

Governor Northam announced that Virginia schools will be closed through the rest of the academic year, which means that children who are already food insecure could be at higher risk of missing meals. Food insecurity in the face of coronavirus is a growing problem in Virginia, and one of the best things we can do to combat it is by supporting food banks. Sen. Kaine and I are urging the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to operate a Disaster Food Distribution Program. This would ensure the safe and efficient distribution of food to families in need. Until this is in place, there are other ways to help.

If you have the means, please consider supporting your community with a contribution to the Federation of Virginia Food Banks, which serves the entire Commonwealth.

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If you need more information on how to prepare for and protect yourself from coronavirus, please visit the Center for Disease Control (CDC)’s dedicated site.

Thank you for your support,

Mark Warner