federal emergency food and shelter program applications
By Matthew Whittle
Published in News on January 11, 2009 2:00 AM
Wayne County has been awarded $72,880 in Federal funds under an Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) administered by the Federal Emergency Manage-ment Agency (FEMA).
Last year's award was $57,624, which assisted local charities in providing more than 15,000 meals and 640 nights of shelter. The funds were also used to assist individuals in emergency situations with rent and utility bills. The EFSP award was increased significantly for 2009 in direct relation to the average number of unemployed individuals in this jurisdiction from October 2007 through September 2008.
Qualifying organizations can submit applications, which are available at United Way of Wayne County, 308 N. William St., starting Monday. Applications must be returned to United Way no later than 5 p.m. Feb. 5. Applicants must also attend a meeting of the local Emergency Food and Shelter Board 9 a.m. Feb. 12 at the United Way office.
Local governmental or private voluntary organizations chosen to receive funds must be non-profit; have an audit; practice nondiscrimination; have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs; have a voluntary board if a private voluntary organization; and be able to certify that the agency is not debarred or suspended from receiving federal funds.
In order to prevent a duplication of services funded, allocations will be awarded as supplements to current services and not as a start up funding.
United Way of Wayne County provides the administrative services for the program.