Emergency food and shelter dollars are on their way to Warren County.

The Warren-Forest Economic Opportunity Council announced that funding in two phases has been directed to county entities to help those who need food and shelter.

“Warren County has been awarded federal funds made available through the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program (EFSP),” EOC Executive Director Bob Raible said.

There will be a total of $45,622 coming to the county. Of that, $18,808 will be from the EFSP. The other $26,814 is in supplemental Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding.

“The need is so great in the county right now, especially with respect to food,” Raible said. “This will also help with utility, rent, and mortgage assistance when the governor lifts restrictions.”

The dollars will be distributed to organizations in the county to benefit individuals.

“A local board will determine how the funds awarded to Warren County are to be distributed among the emergency food and shelter programs run by local service agencies in the area,” Raible said. “The local board is responsible for recommending agencies to receive these funds and any additional funds made available under the two phases of the program.”

To qualify, organizations must be eligible to receive federal funds, have demonstrated the ability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, and meet other federal accounting and non-discrimination requirements.

The dollars from the two phases require separate applications. The deadline for applications is June 1.

Public and private voluntary organizations interested in applying for these funds may contact Raible at 726-2400 ext. 103.