United Way now taking applications for new pool of federal emergency funds

By Patrick Lynn

The United Way of Portage County has been named as the fiscal agent for a new influx of FEMA funds.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) has awarded Portage Co. $81,298 for 2022. The payment will be made in phases via the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and FEMA.

Funds are intended for direct emergency assistance for children, the elderly, and homelessness prevention. Any non-profit, faith-based, or government organization with “proven ability to deliver emergency food or shelter assistance to those in need” is eligible to apply, according to a news release from the United Way.

Applications can be requested by any local qualified emergency service agency by contacting United Way of Portage County by phone at 715-254-2183 or by e-mail at [email protected].

Completed applications must be received in the United Way office, 1100 Centerpoint Dr. # 302 in Stevens Point no later than 5 p.m. on March 31.

Food, emergency shelter, rent, and utility bill assistance has been provided in the past with EFSP funds through agencies such as Operation Bootstrap, the Salvation Army, Portage County Health and Human Services, CAP Services, and Energy Services of Portage County.