The National Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) was created by Congress in 1983 to help social service agencies provide emergency help to people in need. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) chairs the National Board, and United Way Worldwide is the fiscal agent and staff for the program.
United Way of the Bay Area supports the program locally, distributing $47 million throughout our community since its inception. Approximately $2 million was allocated in the Bay Area in 2011.
Money is used to help struggling Bay Area residents with:
- FOOD: soup kitchens, food and restaurant vouchers, food pantry boxes
- SHELTER: mass emergency shelter facilities and motel shelter vouchers
- RENT/MORTGAGE: assistance with back rent to prevent homelessness
- UTILITY: assistance with gas and electric bills
