United Way of Jackson County facilitated a grant process that provided $137,170 in federal funds to local organizations providing food, shelter and utility assistance to people in high-need areas.
The emergency funding was announced in May and provided through the Emergency Food And Shelter National Board Program (EFSP), administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
“As Jackson County wrestles with the personal and economic effects of the pandemic, this support is vital to helping vulnerable individuals and families get through a difficult time,” said Ken Toll, President & CEO of United Way of Jackson County.
A local board of Jackson County residents determined how the funds were distributed. Twelve local organizations received funding:
• AWARE Shelter – meals and consumables for shelter residents for 840 nights.
• Compassionate Ministries of Jackson County – food pantry supplies and food distribution for low-income residents and the homeless.
• Henry Ford Allegiance Health – hotel stays for at-risk individuals exposed to coronavirus and unable to isolate or quarantine at home.
• Jackson Friendly Home – food assistance.
• Jackson Housing Commission – food assistance.
• Jackson InterFaith and AWARE shelters – alternative housing for at-risk homeless individuals due to COVID-19.
• John George Home – food assistance.
• Salvation Army – utility and shelter assistance; Christmas food baskets; food supplies and equipment.
• Society St. Mary of St. Vincent DePaul Star of the Sea Conference – food assistance.
• Springport United Methodist Church Food Pantry – food assistance.
• St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Queen of the Miraculous Medal – food assistance.
• The Adventist Community Service Center – food supplies.