PORT HADLOCK — Applications are being taken now through March 20 for Federal Emergency Management Agency money from a grant administered by United Good Neighbors.
“This grant just became available and will be used to support programs that feed and shelter people,” said UGN Executive Director Carla Caldwell.
“It’s less than what we’ve received in the past, but it will make a difference.”
The UGN, as an agent of the United Way, was awarded $8,000 in federal funds under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Program.
Caldwell said she expects about five or six programs to qualify for the grant, including the YMCA, the Food Bank, the Coast Winter Shelter and the Boiler Room.
The distribution decision will be made by a committee with members from government agencies and those who represent the agencies.
Caldwell said this board is now being assembled.
While she won’t make the final decision, Caldwell said she will recommend that the grant be distributed to one or two agencies rather than splitting it between a larger number of agencies.
“This grant is pretty small, so it will do the most good if we can give larger amounts to fewer applicants,” she said.
The committee is scheduled to meet on March 25. Grant recipients will be announced March 30.
The recommendation is due to FEMA on April 4 with the money distributed in the spring.
Under the terms of the grant, local agencies chosen to receive funds must be private voluntary nonprofits or units of government eligible to receive federal funds; have an accounting system; practice nondiscrimination; and have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food, meals and/or shelter programs.
Private voluntary organizations must have voluntary boards.
To apply, send a letter with a request and purpose to Carla Caldwell, UGN Executive Director, 201 West Patison, Suite B, Port Hadlock, WA 98339, or email the letter to debbie@weareugn.org.
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Jefferson County Editor Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or cbermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
