Washington, Dec 19, 2008 -

U.S. Congressman Pat Tiberi (R-OH) announced today that Licking County would receive $123,077 in emergency funding for food and shelter from the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

“This emergency funding comes at a critical time for Licking County residents who are struggling.  As the weather turns colder and tough economic times continue, this funding can be used to help buy groceries, serve meals, assist with rent or utility payments, or fund repairs at shelters,” said Congressman Tiberi.

The Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program supplements and expands ongoing efforts to provide food, shelter, and supportive services to the nation’s hungry, homeless, and people in economic crisis.  The National Board is awarding $200 million in emergency funding this year to communities based on the rate of unemployment in the community and considered factors like recent business closings.

This year the National Board awarded aid to more than 2,500 cities and counties in need with a total of $8.95 million going to Ohio.  Since it’s creation in 1983, the National Board has awarded more than $3.3 billion to areas in need.