EMERGENCY FOOD & SHELTER PROGRAM GRANTS

Click here to apply

Jefferson County and Marion County has been selected to receive an appropriation by Congress to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in both counties. The Emergency Food and Shelter Program is reserving a portion of these funds for the State Set-Aside (SSA) process. Marion County was awarded $14,506 under Phase 39 and $44,834 under Phase ARPAR for a total of $59,340. Jefferson County was awarded $15,201 under Phase 39 and $46,982 under Phase ARPAR for a total of $62,183.00. The application for the grants may be accessed at the United Way of South Central Illinois website - www.uwsci.org

About EFSP

Federal funds are made available in Marion & Jefferson Counties to supplement emergency food and shelter programs through the Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program (EFSP). The amount available is determined by a National Board chaired by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's FEMA Agency and includes representatives from national nonprofit organizations. Qualifying local organizations are urged to apply.

A Local Board is charged with distributing EFSP funds to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas within the county. The Local Board will review applications requesting funds in the following priority areas: rent/mortgage assistance, utility assistance, mass shelter costs, other shelter, and mass feeding (served meals or food pantry).

In accordance with the authorizing legislation of funds, priority consideration and special emphasis will be given to the specialized needs of:

Individuals experiencing homelessness
Individuals with disabilities
Individuals with mental illness
Senior Citizens
Families with children
Native Americans
Veterans