$500,000 Grant Will Assist Needy

Ventura County charity organizations will share more than $500,000 in federal funds to provide emergency food and shelter for the needy this year, said David Harris, a spokesman for United Way, which will help distribute the money.

The money will be available for local nonprofit organizations that work with the disadvantaged and homeless, Harris said.

The funds are part of an annual grant made to local private charity organizations through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Congress began the program 12 years ago to help private organizations that provide food and shelter to low-income people and the homeless.

Because of the county’s rising unemployment rate, which now stands at about 9.4%, FEMA increased the county’s allocation by nearly $100,000 over last year.

“It’s a way for (FEMA) to get more for their money,” said Jewel Pedi, executive director of Food Share of Ventura County. Food Share was one of 25 organizations that shared in the federal grant last year. The organization used its $71,000 to buy bulk food for distribution at free kitchens throughout the county.

Interested organizations must apply for the money before Dec. 2, Harris said. Last year, grants ranged from $1,000 to $84,000, he said. For applications and further information, contact Beverly Viola at United Way (805) 485-6288.