United Way agencies awarded funds for emergencies

Friday, December 29, 2006 6:26 AM PST

By Janine Manny

The Cowlitz County United Way and the United Way of Columbia County have been awarded federal funds under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program.

Cowlitz County will receive $61,800 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs. Columbia County is scheduled to receive $30,400.

Bob Johnson, executive director of the Cowlitz County United Way said the extra funds will give local food banks a much-needed boost.

"There are so many working poor families," Johnson said Thursday. "They don't need a food box every week, but they often need one at the end of the month to get through. That's where so many of the food banks are getting hit."

A local board made up of representatives from the United Way, American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, community churches, homeless and other community representatives will determine how the funds awarded are to be distributed among emergency programs in the area.

Johnson said that the portion of the Cowlitz County funds for utility assistance will go the existing programs at Lower Columbia Community Action Council (CAP), and funds for temporary rental assistance will go to The Salvation Army.

Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local agencies chosen to receive funds must be a private voluntary nonprofit or units of government; have an accounting system; practice nondiscrimination; demonstrate the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs. If they are a private voluntary organization, they must have a volunteer board.

Qualifying organizations are urged to apply for a portion of the funds. Completed applications must be submitted by January 10, 2007.

To request an application or for more information, contact the Bob Johnson at the Cowlitz County United Way, bjohnson@cowlitzunitedway.org or (360) 423-5320. Contact the United Way of Columbia County at (503) 556-3614 or email uwcc@hotmail.com .