The United Way of Passaic County administers more than $300,000 in a given year to provide for the basic needs of our most vulnerable neighbors.

The United Way of Passaic County administers the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) for Passaic County which provides financial support to low-income residents on an emergency basis to prevent hunger, preserve housing, provide shelter, and support basic needs. Focusing on families with children, low-income families, homeless, immigrants, and elderly, EFSP funding is used to provide meals or groceries, lodging in a shelter or hotel, one month’s rent or mortgage payment, one month’s utility bill, or equipment necessary for organizations to feed or shelter people. With residents in or approaching a crisis, EFSP’s strategy is to supplement and expand the work of local social service agencies to help during economic emergencies. For residents who are working towards, but have not yet achieved self-sufficiency, the assistance from EFSP alleviates the challenges of choosing between rent or food, lights or heat, and offers emergency support during a crisis.  

EFSP funds are federal funds made available through the US Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program. These funds are designated for non-disaster-related needs. Passaic County’s Local EFSP Board will determine how funds are to be distributed among the emergency food and shelter programs run by local non-profit service organizations in Passaic County.  Applications are reviewed by the Local Board who will be responsible for recommending which applicant agencies are to receive these funds.

For more information, please contact Luciana Rufolo, Director of Grants and Programs at luciana@unitedwaypassaic.org