Emergency Food & Shelter Program (EFSP)

Program Background: Established in 1983, the Emergency Food and Shelter Program has provided $6.6 billion in federal funding to enable local social service agencies to provide food and shelter assistance.

Funding Source: Federal funding through FEMA

Governance: EFSP National Board chaired by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with representation from leading community-serving organizations, including United Way Worldwide.

Fund Allocation: The EFSP National Board develops the formula to determine how funds are allocated to localities.

Current Status: PROGRAM SUSPENDED

• On January 27, 2025, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a memorandum requiring a temporary pause on all federal financial assistance activities.
• Although OMB rescinded the memorandum, EFSP has not been allowed to release payments to local service providers.
• The program is under review within FEMA to ensure compliance with Executive Orders and Department of Homeland Security guidance.
• EFSP cannot currently draw down funds from FEMA's payment system to pay participating agencies.
• United Way Pueblo County will provide future updates as received.