Cape County receives FEMA grant for emergency food, shelter through United Way efforts

Cape Girardeau County has been awarded federal funds through efforts of the United Way to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county.

The money was made available through the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program, according to a news release from the United Way of Southeast Missouri.

Cape Girardeau County was chosen to receive $31,748. A local board will determine how to distribute funds to emergency food and shelter programs run by area service agencies. It consists of representatives from the United Way, Salvation Army, American Red Cross, the Cape Girardeau County Commission, East Missouri Action Agency, Catholic Charities, Safe House for Women Area agency on Aging, Jackson Ministerial Alliance and the Community Caring Council, the release said.

Public or private voluntary agencies interested in applying for funds should call Nancy Jernigan, executive director for the United Way of Southeast Missouri, at 334-9634 for an application. The deadline to submit applications is March 10.