INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — In anticipation of the annual award of federal funds under Phase 29 of the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program, United Way of Indian River County is soliciting requests from organizations for EFSP funding.
Though the National Board notes that funding is neither currently available, nor guaranteed, it has recommended that local EFSP boards begin the process of advertising. The Phase 28 award for Indian River County was $116,410 and was used to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the area.
“Last year’s grant award provided funds for mass shelter and one-time (one month) utility and rental/mortgage assistance to individuals and families threatened with discontinuation of utilities or eviction,” said Michael Kint, local Outreach Board Chairman.
Under the terms of this grant, organizations chosen to receive EFSP funds must:
1) Be private voluntary non-profits or units of government;
2) Use funds to supplement and extend existing services and programs;
3) Have an accounting system;
4) Practice non-discrimination;
5) Have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs;
6) If they are a private voluntary organization, they must have a volunteer board;
7) Comply with all EFSP regulations.
If funds are awarded to Indian River County, the selection will have been made by a National Board chaired by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and consists of representatives from The Salvation Army, American Red Cross, United Jewish Communities, Catholic Charities, U.S.A., National Council of Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. and United Way of America which will provide the administrative staff and function as fiscal agent. The Board was charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country.
A Local Board made up of representatives from government, religious and human service agencies will be convened to determine how the funds will be awarded among the local emergency food and shelter programs. The Local Board is responsible for recommending local human service agencies to receive these funds.
Qualifying organizations interested in the screening process and applying for funds should contact Michael Kint at United Way, 567-8900 or michael.kint@unitedwayirc.org by Wednesday, March 16, 2011.