Here you'll be able to find information regarding:

  • Overview of the Sacramento EFSP

  • Eligibility Requirements for Funding

  • EFSP News Updates and Awards Information

The Sacramento Region Emergency Food and Shelter Program

Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado, Nevada, Yolo, and Alpine County.

What is EFSP?

The Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFS), established in 1983 by Congress to supplement local efforts during economic emergencies

Specifically targeted to address an ongoing crisis, the intention of the ESFP is to provide emergency food and shelter to people in need.

Since its inception, the program has distributed more than $2 billion to communities across the country.

The EFSP National Board governs the Sacramento Region Emergency Food and Shelter Program which includes Sacramento, Yolo, Placer, El Dorado, Nevada and Alpine Counties. The Sacramento Region Emergency Food and Shelter Board.

The Sacramento Regional EFSP local board members must replicate the National EFSP membership comprising of the following entities:  American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, United Way WorldWide, Sacramento Mayor (or designee) representing FEMA, Jewish Federal, Catholic Charities, Christian Coalition, a person with lived experience of homelessness, and a Native American Indian.

  • Technical Resource Documents  

  • Local Board Roster and Contact Detail

  • Agency Application for Phase Funding

Who is Eligible?

Any nonprofit, faith-based or local government agency that provides food and shelter services may apply for funds.

Current or former EFSP participation is not required for participation.

EFSP funds must be used to supplement food and shelter services and may not be used as seed money for new programs. Agencies may receive funds to provide food, shelter and supportive services, including,

  • Food services, such as congregate meals or groceries;

  • Lodging in a mass shelter, or in a hotel/motel or other off-site shelter facility limited to 30-days assistance per individual or household;

  • One month rent or mortgage assistance to prevent eviction or foreclosure;

  • Utility assistance for one month of service for gas, electric and water service; and

  • Supplies, including but not limited to cleaning supplies and small equipment essential to feed or shelter people, not exceeding $300 per item.

Application Requirements

The Board for Sacramento Region Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) administers the requirements established by the National EFSP Board, ensuring equitable distribution of funds to local agencies providing emergency food supplies and shelter services.

Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local agencies wishing to apply for EFSP funds must meet the following criteria:

EFSP Requirements
Eligibility Criteria Operational Requirements
Must be eligible to receive federal funds. Maintain a non-discrimination policy.
Must be a voluntary nonprofit, faith-based, or government organization. Demonstrate the capability to deliver emergency food and shelter services.
Private voluntary organizations must have a voluntary board. Funds must used within the required spending period.
Service Requirements Administrative Requirements
Funds must only be used for eligible emergency food and shelter expenses. Submit timely and accurate financial and programmatic reports.
Funds may not be used for starting new programs or ventures. Have an accounting system to track and manage funds accurately.

Application Process

As our economic landscape evolves, the application process and requirements may change to address the critical needs of our communities.

Our board is committed to ensuring these needs are met by empowering agencies with informational resources, training, and direct support to prevent delays or denial.

We strongly suggests agencies review the provided resource information for each phase.

For any questions or assistance, please contact your local board administrator

Board Structure

The EFSP National Board governs the Sacramento Region Emergency Food and Shelter Program

The National Board comprises the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), American Red Cross, Catholic Charities USA,The Jewish Federations of North America, National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, The Salvation Army, and United Way Worldwide.

The Sacramento Region Emergency Food and Shelter Board, administered by Impact Foundry Link, serves as the designated Local Board Administrator. This board is dedicated to overseeing the distribution of funds and resources to support local non-profit organizations in their mission to provide essential food and shelter services to those in need. The SR-EFSP has maintains oversight and management of ESPF funds awarded by National to Six(6) Counties; Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado, Nevada, Alpine, and Yolo.

Local representatives must be invited by their corresponding national agency to serve on the Local Board. The highest-ranking county elected government official or their designee will replace the National Board's FEMA representative. Representatives of local board are NOT paid for the roles they play or their volunteered services

Local Board Roster

Rabbi David Azen, (Chair)

Jewish Federation of North America

Diana Vo

United Way California, Capital Region

Jeremiah Rhine

Catholic Charities, USA

Mayor - Designated Staff

City of Sacramento

Trevor McPeak, (Vice Chair, Administrator)

Lived Experience

Patricia Davis

American Red Cross

Christina Kitchen

The Salvation Army

Pastor Jason E. Bense

National Council for the Churches of Christ, USA

Contact Us

For information regarding the application process, updates on current phase awards, compliance issues, or any other EFSP related inquires, please complete the form and the local administrator will contact you