The Minnesota State Set-Aside Committee for the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) has recommended that Mower County be awarded $5,224 for Phase 35.

These federal funds are awarded through FEMA and are used to provide emergency food and shelter.

The local board is made up of representatives from the Salvation Army, Veterans Services, Austin and Mower County HRA, United Way, Semcac, Human Services, churches and other organizations. The local board determines how the funds are distributed among emergency food and shelter programs run by local service organizations in the area.

Under the terms of the grant, local governmental or private voluntary organizations chosen to receive funds must meet the following criteria:

• Be non-profit;

• Have a checking account and accounting system;

• Practice non-discrimination;

• Have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or offer shelter programs; and

• If private, have a voluntary not-for-profit board.

Qualifying organizations may apply by June 20. For more information or to apply, contact Wendy Todd, Semcac, P.O. Box 549, Rushford, MN 55971-0549, or call 507-864-7741.