St. Lawrence County has been awarded $55,242 in federal funds under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program (EFSNBP).

The money assist with emergency food, shelter and utilities for those in need in the county, according to a press release from St. Lawrence County Community Development Program.

A local board made up of the Salvation Army, United Way of Northern New York, Catholic Charities, CDP, Office for the Aging, and Renewal House in Canton will determine distribution among agencies and programs providing emergency food and shelter in St. Lawrence County.

The local board is responsible for recommending agencies to receive these funds and any additional funds that might become available from the EFSP program.

The award was made by the EFSNBP, which is chaired by FEMA with representatives from the American Red Cross, Catholic Charities, United Jewish Community, National Council of Churches of Christ, Salvation Army and United Way of America. The local board must distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high need areas of the county.

Local agencies getting funds are required to be private, voluntary, non-profits or units of government; have an accounting system; must practice nondiscrimination; have demonstrated the capacity to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs and must have a voluntary board.

Qualifying agencies are urged to have their applications in to the St. Lawrence County Community Development Program, One Commerce Lane, Canton, NY 13617 by the close of business Friday, Aug. 5.

More info: 315-386-1102.