The National Board of the Emergency Food and Shelter Program has awarded $18,210 to Freeborn County. The money is used to provide emergency food and shelter to people in need of them. The local board is made up of the local food shelf, churches, Semcac, social services, Salvation Army and other interested organizations.

The local board determines how the funds are to be distributed among emergency food and shelter programs run by local service organizations in the area.

Under the terms of the grant from the national board, local governmental or private voluntary organizations chosen to receive funds must: 1) be non-profit, 2) have a checking account and accounting system 3) practice non-discrimination, 4) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter program, and 5) have a voluntary board if private, not-for-profit. Qualifying organizations may apply.

Anyone wishing more information about the Emergency Food and Shelter Program and how to apply for funding should contact Linda Lares at Semcac, 2202 Stevens St., Albert Lea, 373-1329.