The Department of Homeland Security Awards $350 Million for Humanitarian Assistance Through the...

FEMA has indeed directed funds to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) through various programs aimed at addressing humanitarian needs and enhancing community resilience. Here are the key initiatives:

## Humanitarian Assistance

- **Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP-H)**: In February 2023, FEMA announced a funding opportunity of **$350 million** under the EFSP-H to support local communities managing noncitizen arrivals. This funding is intended to assist localities and NGOs that help screen noncitizens awaiting immigration court proceedings. This initiative is part of a broader effort authorized by the Bipartisan Year-End Omnibus funding approved in December 2022[1].

## Mitigation Funds

- **Hazard Mitigation Grant Program**: FEMA allocates funds to nonprofit organizations through this program. For example, in February 2024, FEMA awarded nearly **$50,000** to Centro Para Puerto Rico for a solar-powered energy backup system that enhances resilience at community technology centers[2]. This program aims to reduce future damage from natural disasters by supporting projects that ensure continuity of services.

## Shelter and Services Program

- **Shelter and Services Program (SSP)**: In September 2024, FEMA allocated approximately **$640.9 million** to various jurisdictions and NGOs as part of the SSP, which focuses on providing shelter and services for noncitizens. This includes funding for organizations like Catholic Charities and local food banks across multiple states[3].

## Nonprofit Security Grant Program

- **Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)**: This program supports nonprofit organizations at high risk of terrorist attacks, providing funding for security enhancements. The FY 2024 NSGP allows eligible nonprofits to apply for up to **$150,000** per site for security improvements[6].

These initiatives reflect FEMA's commitment to collaborating with NGOs to address both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term resilience against disasters and threats.

Citations:
[1] https://www.dhs.gov/news/2023/02/28/department-homeland-security-awards-350-million-humanitarian-assistance-through
[2] https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20240201/fema-allocates-mitigation-funds-nonprofit-institutions
[3] https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/shelter-services-program/fy24-awards/ssp-a
[4] https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_private-non-profit-houses-worship-eligibility-fact-sheet.pdf
[5] https://www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation/learn/pre-disaster/fy23-congressionally-directed-spending
[6] https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/nonprofit-security/fy-24-faqs
[7] https://www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation/learn/pre-disaster/fy24-congressionally-directed-spending
[8] https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public