United Way of Aroostook to Administer $22,640 Grant from Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program
Aroostook County (December 6, 2024) – United Way of Aroostook has been selected to administer a grant totaling $22,640 from the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program (EFSP). This funding will be allocated to local organizations addressing essential needs, specifically food and shelter.
As the designated administrator for this grant, United Way of Aroostook will facilitate the distribution of EFSP funds through a local board comprised of community volunteers. This board will be responsible for evaluating applications and making decisions regarding disbursements to various emergency food and shelter programs in the area.
The EFSP funds are intended to supplement and enhance ongoing efforts to provide vital services, including shelter and food assistance. This support is designed to go beyond the existing services already offered by local agencies through their annual budgets.
“United Way of Aroostook is grateful for this vital funding we have received from the Emergency Food and Shelter Program. This support will enhance our efforts to meet the essential needs of food and shelter in Aroostook County, enabling us to better serve our communities and strengthen local organizations dedicated to helping those in need,” said United Way of Aroostook Executive Director, Sarah Duncan.
To qualify for these funds, organizations must meet the following requirements:
- Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or governmental organization.
- Maintain a comprehensive accounting system.
- Adhere to nondiscrimination policies.
- Demonstrate the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs within Aroostook County.
- If a private voluntary organization, have a voluntary board.
At the federal level, funding distribution decisions are made by a National Board chaired by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This board includes representatives from various organizations, such as The Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Council of Jewish Federations, Catholic Charities USA, National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA, and United Way Worldwide.
United Way Worldwide serves as the administrative staff and fiscal agent for the EFSP, ensuring the effective distribution of funds appropriated by Congress to enhance the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas across the country.
For more information about the grant and its potential impact on the community, please contact Sarah Duncan at United Way of Aroostook at sarah@unitedwayaroostook.org. Applications will be due by January 17, 2025.
About United Way of Aroostook:
United Way of Aroostook (UWA) mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. True to our founding spirit, whenever there is a need in our communities, UWA is there. We bring a comprehensive approach to every challenge, actively listening and responding to local needs. Our reach across all communities means we can share innovations and scale impact to improve lives in Aroostook County. From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, we’re working towards a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential. To learn more, visit www.unitedwayaroostook.org.