Funding Delays Impact Emergency Food and Shelter Programs in Portage County

The Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP), a critical source of funding for emergency food and shelter services, has faced significant delays in disbursement under the Trump administration. Despite congressional funding, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has not released these funds, leaving local organizations in Portage County, Ohio, to seek alternative financial support. The Government Accountability Office reported that FEMA violated the 1974 Impoundment Control Act by withholding obligated funds without proper legislative approval.

Federal funding delay hits Portage County families in need of food and shelter

In Portage County, organizations such as Axess Family Services and Change Hunger have been severely affected. Each received 40% of the county's EFSP allocation, which totals between $70,000 and $80,000. Change Hunger, which distributes EFSP funds to nine local food pantries, faces a $6,000 annual cut, impacting its ability to serve approximately 150 families monthly. Bill Bissler, a trustee at the Brimfield Community Cupboard, noted that the funding freeze has forced them to halve food distribution per recipient, leading to concerns about the pantry's sustainability.

Federal funding delay hits Portage County families in need of food and shelter

Local leaders are exploring fundraising options, including GoFundMe campaigns and partnerships with businesses, to compensate for the lost EFSP funds. However, the uncertainty surrounding future funding remains a pressing issue. County Commissioner Mike Tinlin acknowledged the need for financial support but indicated that current resources are limited. The United Way of Portage County is attempting to raise $20,000 to distribute among affected organizations, but as of now, only $7,000 has been collected.

Federal funding delay hits Portage County families in need of food and shelter

Critics argue that the funding delays exacerbate existing issues of food insecurity and homelessness in the community. Bill Childers, President and CEO of United Way of Portage County, warned that without intervention, more families will face eviction, utility disconnections, and hunger. The loss of the American Rescue Plan Act funding, set to expire in 2026, further complicates the situation, as it provided $330,000 annually to local food pantries.

Federal funding delay hits Portage County families in need of food and shelter

Mark Frisone, executive director of Axess Family Services, emphasized the effective management of EFSP funds at the local level, stating, “You’re taking food away from the hungriest of the hungry.” David Shea, Executive Director of Community Action Council, expressed concern about the high cost of housing and the impact on families reliant on utility assistance.

Federal funding delay hits Portage County families in need of food and shelter

As local organizations grapple with funding shortages, the need for community support is critical. The United Way's fundraising efforts are ongoing, and local leaders are urged to seek innovative solutions to address the growing demand for food and shelter services in Portage County. The situation remains fluid, with stakeholders hopeful for a resolution that will restore essential funding to these vital programs.

Federal funding delay hits Portage County families in need of food and shelter