Spinning His Wheels: Prioritizing Ferris Wheels Over the Basic Needs of WV Children?

Do you rely on School Clothing Vouchers for your WV child(ren)? 

It’s the middle of July, and West Virginia’s children are waiting for the funding for clothing vouchers to be released. Normally, these funds are released by the first of July….that hasn’t happened yet, BUT just last week, we watched as a $2 million Ferris wheel was hauled to our State Capitol for WV families to enjoy. Now that the holiday celebration has ended, families are left worrying about whether or not their children will have new clothes to wear to school.

I know firsthand how important those vouchers are for families. When my children were school-aged, I, a single mom working full-time, relied on WV School Clothing Vouchers. Back then, we received paper vouchers, and I would use half of the allotted $200 for back-to-school needs, fit for the summer weather, and save the other half for around Halloween when winter clothes and coats went on sale. $200 wasn’t a lot for clothes, but it was more than what we had without the help. 

A free ride on a Ferris wheel is a fleeting thrill that lasts only a few minutes, but a child going to school in new clothes provides a foundation of dignity and confidence that lasts longer than a spin on a Ferris wheel. Our state government is offering families a temporary distraction at the top of a carnival ride while leaving them grounded in economic anxiety below.

When our state government chooses to fund a $2 million carnival attraction while locking away the budget meant for children's basic needs, it isn't just poor fiscal management—it's a moral failure. 

Here is another truth: Our stories, our truths, force lawmakers to face the real impact of their decisions on our families. Would you share the impact on your family if Governor Morrisey does not release funding for School Clothing Vouchers? 

Please share your experiences by filling out the form.