Finally an Update on the First Humanitarian Reimbursement Awards

Congressman will work with local organization and governments in second application process

Texas Border Business

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Washington, DC — Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) provided an update on the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) National Board’s first awards to local governments and organizations who provided humanitarian aid to migrants at our southern border.

“Even though the EFSP National Board has not awarded the full $30 million that was appropriated in the FY19 Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Bill, this is an important step to compensating the communities that have been on the front lines in providing humanitarian services to migrants at our southern border. It is critical that the EFSP National Board proceeds with awarding reimbursements to local entities and remains transparent in the application process.

“As the Vice–Chair of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, I will continue to work with both the National Board as well as local governments and organizations to ensure our communities are all properly reimbursed for their work. I encourage local stakeholders to contact my office for questions or concerns regarding the second application process. I want to thank the local entities who remain committed to providing humanitarian assistance.”

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During the first application period, a total of 100 service agency applications were received by the EFSP National Board. Out of the total $30 million appropriated in the FY19 Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Bill, the EFSP National Board has awarded $7.8 million. This amount may increase as there are applications pending award determination.

The EFSP National Board anticipates that $21.6 million will remain to be awarded in a second application period. This second application period will provide additional time for agencies to engage with the EFSP National Board staff and to receive additional technical assistance in developing an application. The second application period is anticipated to cover eligible costs incurred between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2019. 

Additionally, the EFSP National Board is planning a “second review” for the first application period to allow service agencies/local boards the opportunity to resolve issues discovered during the review process, such as inadequate documentation, that prevented eligible cost reimbursements in the first review.  November 1, 2019, is the deadline for service agencies/local boards to correct issues in applications from the first application period. 

The EFSP National Board anticipates January 2020 as the release timeframe of the second review application and start of the open period for the second round of applications. Enhanced guidance is expected to be released before the application period opens.     

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To read the EFSP’s Award Announcement, click here. 

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