The Emergency Food & Shelter Program (EFSP) in Iroquois County is administered by the United Way of Kankakee & Iroquois Counties, serving as the Chair of the Iroquois County EFSP Board. This program provides critical funding to supplement existing food, shelter, and emergency assistance services within the county. The EFSP is designed to support local organizations that provide food pantries, home-delivered meals, rent and utility assistance programs, and other essential services to individuals and families in need.

Funding for this program is allocated from the National EFSP Board, which disburses federal funds to local organizations that directly assist vulnerable populations. The primary focus of the EFSP is to ensure that emergency food and shelter services remain available and accessible to those in financial distress. The funds cannot be used for new programs but must supplement ongoing services.

Eligible organizations can use the grant to provide:

Emergency food services, such as congregate meals or groceries
Shelter and housing assistance, including rent or mortgage support to prevent eviction or foreclosure
Utility assistance for essential services like gas, electricity, and water
Lodging in mass shelters, hotels/motels, or other temporary accommodations
Supplies and equipment essential for food and shelter services (up to $300 per item)
The local EFSP board consists of representatives from community organizations, local government, religious institutions, and financial entities. The board reviews applications, allocates funding, and ensures compliance with EFSP regulations.

Organizations interested in receiving funding must complete the 2025 EFSP Funding Application and submit it via email to Mariah Vail at mariah@myunitedway.org by February 14, 2025.