The Minnesota State Set-Aside Committee for the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) has recommended funds be awarded to Mower, Dodge, Fillmore, Houston and Steele Counties.

These federal funds are awarded through the Department of Homeless Security-FEMA and used for people in need of emergency food and shelter. The local board is made up of food shelves, the Salvation Army, Human Services, local housing agencies, Women’s Resources, Veteran Services, Semcac and other interested organizations. The local board determines how the funds are to be distributed among emergency food and shelter programs run by local service organizations in the area.

Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local governmental or private voluntary organizations chosen to receive funds must:

• Be non-profit;
• Have a checking account and accounting system;
• Practice non-discrimination;
• Have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs; and
• Have a voluntary board if private, not-for-profit.

Qualifying organizations may apply by Aug. 10.

For more information about the EFSP and how to apply for funding, contact Wendy Todd, Semcac, P.O. Box 549, Rushford, MN 55971-0549 or call 507-864-7741.