Chautauqua County has been chosen to receive $53,581 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs throughout the county, and an additional $76,391 in funds through the CARES Act.

The award was made by the Emergency Food & Shelter Program’s National Board that is chaired by FEMA and consists of representatives from the American Red Cross, Catholic Charities USA, National Council of the Churches of Christ USA, The Salvation Army, United Jewish Communities, and United Way Worldwide.

Locally, the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County leads the Emergency Food and Shelter Program and is responsible for distributing these awards.

The purpose of these dollars is to expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas.

Members of the Local EFSP Board include the American Red Cross, Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc., Chautauqua County Department of Health and Human Services, Dunkirk/Fredonia and Jamestown Meals on Wheels, FeedMore WNY, Office for the Aging, Pathstone, The Salvation Army of Dunkirk and Jamestown, the YWCA of Jamestown and the United Ways of Northern and Southern Chautauqua County.

Applications are due by May 18. Those interested should contact United Way immediately for the application instructions at 483-1561.