Grant Type
Non-Disaster Emergencies
Last edited time
Nov 14, 2025 2:59 AM
Program Description:
- A FEMA-funded program authorized by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act of 1987. The program supplements and expands ongoing work of local nonprofit and governmental social service organizations to provide shelter, food and supportive services to individuals and families who are experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, hunger and/or homelessness. The program may also receive funding to award to the National Board for distribution to local social service organizations that provide humanitarian relief to families and individuals encountered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI) serves as the administrator of the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) in the USVI, making it possible for local organizations to participate in this important funding opportunity. Since early 2022, three funding rounds have provided nearly $1.5 million to territory organizations. CFVI chairs a 12-member local board that reviews applications and recommends awards. Funds are distributed directly by the national EFSP. Funding comes from DHS/FEMA under the federally-funded EFSP.
Eligibility:
- Eligible applicants must be nonprofits, churches, or government units that can deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, receive Federal funding, practice nondiscrimination, and have an accounting system. EFSP National Board funds jurisdictions nationwide to support organizations serving people experiencing or at risk of homelessness or hunger. Funds address non-disaster emergencies based on population, unemployment, and poverty data. Local boards award grants for services including:
- Food, in the form of served meals or groceries.
- Lodging in a mass shelter or hotel.
- Rental or mortgage assistance to prevent evictions.
- Utility payment to prevent service cut-offs.
- Transportation costs associated with the provision of food or shelter.
- Supplies and equipment necessary to feed or shelter people.
Application:
- When available, agencies interested in applying for the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) funds must submit applications via CFVI's grant portal. All new applicants to CFVI must create a new account with the online grant portal. All returning applicants must log in to their previously created account.
Local Contact:
- Beth Nuttall at bethn@cfvi.net with any questions.
