The Leflore County Emergency Food and Shelter Program has been awarded $17,785 for emergency assistance and is looking for qualified organizations to assist those in need.
The funding comes through the Emergency Food and Shelter Program National Board, a federal agency, which receives its annual appropriations from Congress.
“We’ve been receiving these funds since the early ’80s,” said Elizabeth “Pann” Powers, chairman of county’s program.
Powers said a local board meeting will be held at 1:30 p.m. Dec. 11 at the CB&S Bank, 820 W. Park Ave. She encourages members of the board to attend, as significant changes have been made in both the requirements and responsibilities of local recipient organizations.
Each year, when grants are announced, the local agency must seek participation from all interested community groups.
Powers said in order to qualify, all applying organizations must hold a 501(c) (3) designation.
Each must have a board of directors, a bank checking account capable of direct deposit, a list of Employer Identification Numbers of all employees along with a Dun & Bradstreet number. In addition, the organization cannot participate in lobbying or other politically related activities.
Currently, the Salvation Army, the Community Food Pantry and the Greenwood Interfaith Ministries’ Community Kitchen receive funding under the program.
The Salvation Army handles emergency shelter and utility assistance. The pantry provides emergency food assistance, and the Community Kitchen provides weekday meals.
Powers said the total amount of funding is based upon the unemployment rate within the county.
“We’ve gotten as much as $38,000 in the past,” she said.
As harsh economic times have gripped much of the country, she said, the annual amount of funding has dwindled significantly..
For more information, contact Powers at 453-6057 or by e-mail at powe6916@bellsouth.net.
• Contact Bob Darden at 581-7239 or bdarden@gwcommonwealth.com.
