Emergency Food & Shelter Program

Local boards must be comprised of representatives at the local level of the same organizations as those on the National Board. A local government official must serve in place of the FEMA representative. In jurisdictions where affiliates of National Board representatives do not exist, other appropriate representatives should be invited to sit on the local board. Local boards must also include in their membership a representative who is homeless, formerly homeless, or a former recipient of program services. If the jurisdiction is located within or encompasses any federally recognized tribal lands, the local board must invite a tribal representative from each tribe to serve on the board. If a jurisdiction has a tribal population, then a tribal representative must also be invited to serve.

Additionally, the National Board encourages local boards to expand their membership to best reflect the community. In expanding membership, local boards must invite organizations that advocate for or provide services to the elderly, families with children, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Local boards advertise the availability of funds, establish priorities among community needs, award funds to recipient organizations, notify the National Board of funding decisions so the National Board can disburse funds directly to recipient organizations, and monitor and assist recipient organizations to ensure they follow program guidelines.

If you are interested in serving on the Local Board contact Shelley at srichno@swunitedway, 307.362.5003.