Schumer, Gillibrand announce Schenectady County will receive $42,550 in Economic Recovery Act funding for emergency food and shelter program

U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand have announced that Schenectady County will receive $42,550 in Economic Recovery Act funding for FEMA's the Emergency Food and Shelter Program(EFSP). EFSP funds can be used for many different services, including mass shelter, mass feeding, food distribution through food pantries and food banks, one-month assistance with rent, mortgage and utility payments to prevent evictions, and transition assistance from shelters to stable living conditions. The funding is part of a total of $5,290,000 for New York State and an additional $307,271 for the State Set-Aside Program to serve NY areas in need that do not qualify based on regular FEMA standards.

“During these tough economic times, funding this program will give needed food and shelter assistance to struggling families across the Capital Region,” Schumer said. “Increasing access to shelter, food and housing assistance will help keep many Upstate New York families afloat during these tumultuous times. These funds are a prime example of what the Recovery Act can do and one of the many reasons I fought so hard to pass the package. During this season it is more important than ever to feed the hungry and house our most vulnerable families.”

"During these tough economic times, it's important that we maintain a support system for the New York families who need it most," said Senator Gillibrand. "Food and housing assistance programs are a lifeline for many families in the Capital Region. These federal dollars provide food for their tables and a roof over their heads. I will continue to work with Senator Schumer and the New York Congressional Delegation to ensure New York continues to receive these critical funds."

Click here for more information.