PROVIDENCE, RI - In an effort to provide extra funding for local food banks and shelters, U.S Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today announced that Rhode Island will receive over $975,000 in emergency federal funds through the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP).

"There are a lot of people struggling right now, and I'm pleased to have supported this federal money so we can help more families get aid, food, and shelter," said Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee.

EFSP grant funds are used to supplement food, shelter, rent, mortgage, and utility assistance programs for people with non-disaster related emergencies. Under the program, the greater Providence area will receive $604,261 and $371,585 will go the Rhode Island State Set-Aside Committee, which may award money to additional communities throughout the state.

In each community receiving federal money, a local board advertises the availability of funding, establishes priorities, selects local non-profit and government organizations that will get the money, and ensures that all groups are in compliance.

The Emergency Food and Shelter Program administers the funds under the jurisdiction of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The program's national board includes representatives from several groups, including the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, and the United Way of America.

The EFS Program has been in existence since 1983 and was authorized under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. Senator Reed has worked hard over the years to increase funding for and reauthorize the housing programs in the McKinney-Vento Act.