About EFSP
The Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) is a federally funded initiative designed to help communities meet the basic needs of individuals and families experiencing economic hardship. Established on March 24, 1983, with the signing of the "Jobs Stimulus Bill" (Public Law 98-8), EFSP was created to provide emergency food, shelter, and utility assistance to those in need. The legislation also created a National Board to oversee the program, chaired by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and composed of representatives from the American Red Cross, Catholic Charities USA, The Jewish Federations of North America, the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, The Salvation Army, and United Way Worldwide.
In North Central Florida, United Way proudly serves as the local administrator of EFSP funds for Alachua, Bradford, Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy, and Union counties. Our role includes convening a local board of community partners to assess needs, review applications, and allocate funding to qualified nonprofit and government agencies. By managing this process, United Way North Central Florida (UWNCFL) helps ensure that essential services reach the most vulnerable residents in our region when they need them most.
Availability of Funds
EFSP funds are generally available annually. The amount of funding per county is determined by FEMA for each phase of the program. UWNCFL advertises funding and opens applications upon notice of funding availability from the National Board. Funding is paid directly to approved agencies from the federal EFSP fund.
To learn more about EFSP funding, please visit the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program.