1. How do individuals needing emergency food assistance receive services?

Answer:

Individuals should visit the food bank nearest to where they live.  Please see Food Bank Service Locations.

2. What is the source of Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP) funding?

Answer:

The funds come from the Washington State General Fund.

3. What may EFAP funds be used for?

Answer:

EFAP funds may be used for the following:

• Administering food bank programs  (Non-profits and tribes)

                Allowable uses include:

1. Operational costs.
2.  Food purchases.
3.  Equipment purchases and repairs.
4.  Limited administrative costs.
5.  Nutrition training.
6.  Food purchases for people with special dietary needs

• Administrating food voucher programs (Tribes only)

                Allowable uses include:

1.  Limited operational and administrative costs.
2.  The face value of vouchers

• Providing distribution services to participating food banks.

        Allowable uses include:

1.  Operational costs.    
2.  Food purchases.
3.  Equipment purchases and repairs.
4.  Limited administrative costs.
5.  Food purchases for people with special dietary needs.

•  EFAP funds may not be used for prepared meal programs.

4. Who is eligible for these funds?

Answer:

Non-Profit 501(c)3 Organizations, federally recognized tribes, and unrecognized tribes that are non-profit 501(c)3 organizations who provide emergency food services in Washington State.

5. What are the specific eligibility criteria for Food Banks?

Answer:

            Organizations must:

1. Have been operating at least one year.
2. Meet specific match requirements.
3. Practice non-discrimination in providing services.
4. Not require participation in religious ceremonies or charge fees for services.

                    See Policies and Procedures (Policy 400, F and G) for further criteria. 

6. What are the specific eligibility criteria for Tribes?

Answer: Tribes must:

1. Be federally recognized or be a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization.
2. Meet specific match requirements.
3. Practice non-discrimination in providing services.
4. Not require participation in religious ceremonies or charge fees for services.
5. Tribal food banks receiving Emergency Food Assistance Program funds must have been in operation for at least one year.

                    See Policies and Procedures (Policy 400, F and G) for further criteria. 

7. How does an organization apply for EFAP funds?

Answer:

Applications are submitted through lead agencies prior to the beginning of the biennium.  Each county has a designated lead agency.  (See Food Bank Contractor List and Policies and Procedures, Policy 400.)  In specific circumstances, an agency may be eligible to receive funds part way through a contract period.  (See Policies and Procedures, Policy 500, L.)

Tribal organizations should contact program staff directly.