Federal Homelessness Resource Guide

Information by State  Print version

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

Here's What We Provide

The Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program (EFSP) is a Federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) through the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act of 1987 (PL 100-77) "to supplement and expand ongoing efforts to provide shelter, food and supportive services" for homeless and hungry individuals nationwide.

The National Board, chaired by FEMA, includes representatives from American Red Cross; Catholic Charities, USA; United Jewish Communities; National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A.; The Salvation Army; and United Way of America.

Jurisdictions are selected for funding by the National Board based on a set of qualifying criteria. Local non-profit and government emergency food and shelter agencies that apply are prioritized for funding by the local boards in selected jurisdictions. The recipient organizations utilize funds for mass shelter, mass feeding, food distribution through food pantries and food banks, one-month utility payments to prevent service cut-off, and one-month rent/mortgage assistance to prevent evictions or assist people leaving shelters to establish stable living conditions. In each of the last few years, over 11,500 local non-profit and government agencies have received EFSP funds in more than 2,500 jurisdictions nationwide.

The National Board encourages local boards to place special emphasis on identification of and assistance to the elderly, families with children, Native Americans, veterans, and those who are mentally and/or physically disabled.

Here's Who To Contact

FEMA Region VI is comprised of the States of Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. The FEMA Region VI office is located at 800 North Loop 288 in Denton, Texas 76209. Contact either Mark Misczak at (940) 898-5507 or Harry Noftsker at (940) 898-5115.